Agartala, October 20: Tripura’s indigenous cultural heritage has received national recognition with folk artist Raju Mog being selected for the prestigious Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar 2025 for his dedicated efforts to preserve and promote the traditional Sangrain dance.
A resident of Daspara in Bir Chandra Manu under Santirbazar subdivision of South Tripura district, Mog has devoted nearly 20 years to practising and popularising the traditional dance form. His sustained commitment to safeguarding the cultural identity of the Mog community has earned him recognition at the national level.
The award was presented by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat at a ceremony held at Rabindra Bhavan in the Meghdoot Theatre Complex. Mog was honoured with an angavastram and a copper plaque in recognition of his contribution to India’s rich and diverse cultural traditions.
Expressing his gratitude after receiving the award, Mog described the achievement as a collective accomplishment rather than an individual success. He thanked his family members, teachers, mentors, fellow artists, well-wishers and the Mog community for their constant encouragement and support.
He also acknowledged the significant role played by his maternal uncle, Congthing Mog, and his mentor, Krairi Mog Choudhury, whose guidance and motivation helped him strengthen his artistic abilities and dedication to Sangrain dance.
The ceremony recognised 55 young artists from different parts of the country across five categories for their contributions to India’s cultural landscape.
Mog’s achievement has brought fresh national attention to Tripura’s indigenous performing arts. His recognition also underscores the importance of grassroots artists in keeping traditional dance forms alive and passing them on to future generations.