In a moment of immense pride for Tripura and the entire Mog community, celebrated folk artist Raju Mog has brought national recognition to the state by receiving the prestigious Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar 2025 for his dedication to preserving and promoting Tripura’s traditional Sangrain dance.
Hailing from Daspara in Bir Chandra Manu, under Santirbazar subdivision of South Tripura, Raju Mog has spent nearly two decades mastering and popularising this indigenous folk dance form. Through years of relentless practice, dedication and numerous cultural performances, he has emerged as a prominent representative of Tripura’s rich cultural heritage on the national stage.
The prestigious award was presented to him by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat at a ceremony held at Rabindra Bhavan, Meghdoot Theatre Complex. Raju Mog received the honour along with an angavastram and a copper plaque, marking a significant milestone in his artistic journey.
His achievement reflects years of hard work and an unwavering commitment to keeping traditional art alive. Over the course of his career, Raju Mog has participated in more than 300 state-level cultural programmes and over 100 national-level events and performances, helping introduce the vibrant traditions of Sangrain dance to audiences far beyond Tripura.
Speaking after receiving the award, Raju Mog described the recognition as a collective achievement rather than an individual accomplishment. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to his family, teachers, well-wishers, fellow artists and the entire Mog community for their constant encouragement and blessings.
He also fondly acknowledged the contributions of his maternal uncle, Congthing Mog, his mentor Krairi Mog Choudhury, and other guiding figures whose inspiration and support played a vital role in shaping his artistic journey.
At the award ceremony, a total of 55 young artists from across the country were honoured in five categories. Raju Mog’s recognition among these talented performers has brought the cultural richness of Tripura’s indigenous communities into the national spotlight.
Coming from a small hill state in Northeast India, his journey stands as a powerful example of how passion, perseverance and dedication can transform a traditional art form into a source of national pride.
Raju Mog’s achievement is more than a personal triumph — it is a landmark moment for Tripura’s cultural heritage and a proud chapter in the history of the Mog community. His recognition is expected to inspire young artists to embrace their roots, preserve indigenous traditions and carry the cultural legacy of Tripura to greater heights.
