Agartala, Nov 8 : Young cultural artist Raju Mog returned home to a rousing welcome in South Tripura after receiving the prestigious Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar 2025 for his contribution to the promotion and preservation of the traditional Sangrai dance of the Mog community.
Raju, a resident of Bir Chandra Manu in Santirbazar subdivision, arrived at Jolaibari Railway Station around 8.30 pm on Saturday, where members of various social and cultural organisations gathered to felicitate him.
The artist was greeted with flower bouquets and garlands as community members celebrated his achievement, which has brought national recognition to Tripura’s indigenous cultural heritage.
His recognition has particularly highlighted the traditional Sangrai dance of the Mog community, which he has been promoting through performances on various platforms across the country.
Coming from a modest family background, Raju has devoted several years to preserving indigenous dance forms, folklore and cultural traditions. His efforts to showcase the community’s traditional art beyond Tripura have earned appreciation from cultural organisations and enthusiasts.
Speaking to reporters after his arrival, Raju expressed gratitude to the individuals and organisations who supported him throughout his artistic journey.
He acknowledged the contributions of community organisations, media personnel and his mentors, saying their encouragement had motivated him to continue working towards the preservation and promotion of Mog cultural traditions.
Members of the Mog community described the award as a significant milestone, saying the recognition was not merely a personal achievement for Raju but also an honour for their cultural heritage.
Community representatives said the national-level recognition would provide greater visibility to traditional art forms that have been preserved and passed down through generations.
The achievement has also drawn appreciation from cultural circles across Tripura, with many expressing hope that it would inspire more young people to take an active interest in indigenous art forms.
The Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar, instituted by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, recognises young practitioners for their contribution to various fields of performing arts.
Raju’s achievement has emerged as a moment of pride for the Mog community and Tripura, highlighting the contribution of young artists towards safeguarding the state’s diverse cultural traditions.
