SHAKTA CENTRE IN TRIPURA: A RELOOKING RELIGIOUS HISTORY OF INDIA

Abstract

This paper explores the religious history and cultural significance of Shakta worship in Tripura, India, with a focus on the period from the 8th to the 15th centuries CE. Tripura, rich in natural resources and diverse in its tribal population, has been a significant center for the worship of female deities, particularly under the Shakta tradition. The state's association with the goddess Tripurasundari and other female divinities highlights the blend of Aryan and non-Aryan religious practices, which evolved into a unique form of Tantricism. This study delves into the genesis of Shakta worship in India, tracing its roots from Vedic literature to its proliferation in Tripura. The analysis includes detailed examinations of various goddess figures such as Sarvani, Durga, Mahishasuramardini, and Kali, along with their iconographic features and archaeological findings. The evidence from inscriptions, temple architecture, and recovered images underscores the profound impact of Shakta worship on the region's religious landscape. The paper concludes by highlighting the continued relevance and evolution of Shakta practices in Tripura, reflecting the enduring legacy of these ancient traditions