Kokborok Day, also known as Tripuri Language Day, is observed every year on 19 January in the state of Tripura. The day celebrates the linguistic, cultural, and historical heritage of the Kokborok language, which is the mother tongue of the Tripuri tribal community.
In 2026, Kokborok Day marks the 48th anniversary of the language’s recognition as an official language of Tripura in 1979.
Why in the News?
Kokborok Day 2026 will be observed on 19 January 2026, commemorating 48 years since Kokborok was accorded official language status by the Tripura government. The occasion highlights renewed efforts to protect and promote indigenous languages in India.
What is the Kokborok Language?
- Kokborok, also known as Tripuri or Tiprakok, is the native language of the Tripuri people.
- It belongs to the Tibeto-Burman language family.
- The language is primarily spoken in Tripura and parts of the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh.
- Kokborok is among the fastest-developing indigenous languages in Northeast India.
- For the Tripuri community, Kokborok is a core marker of cultural identity and heritage.
History of Kokborok Day
- Kokborok Day commemorates the year 1979, when Kokborok was officially recognized as a state language of Tripura, alongside Bengali and English.
- Historically, Kokborok was widely spoken during the reign of the Tripuri kings in the ancient Kingdom of Tipra.
- Although the language has existed for thousands of years, official recognition came after sustained cultural, social, and political movements aimed at safeguarding tribal linguistic rights.
Significance of Kokborok Day
- The day symbolises the struggle for tribal self-expression, identity, and cultural recognition.
- Ancient records mention that Kokborok was once written in the Koloma script, which is currently witnessing revival efforts.
- Due to socio-political debates, the script has not been standardised, and the Roman (Latin) script is commonly used today.
- Kokborok Day emphasizes the importance of preserving indigenous languages, which carry traditional knowledge, oral history, and cultural values.
How Kokborok Day is Celebrated
- The day is marked by cultural programmes, seminars, literary festivals, debates, and language awareness campaigns across Tripura.
- Government and non-government organisations implement initiatives such as the “Kokborok Tei Hukumu Mission” to promote Kokborok literature, music, films, and education.
- Kokborok is now taught in schools, colleges, and universities.
- Towns like Khumulwng host libraries containing thousands of Kokborok books, strengthening literary growth.
Important Facts About the Kokborok Language
- Earlier known as Tipra, the name Kokborok became popular in the 20th century.
- It is spoken by several Tripuri clans, including Debbarma, Reang, Jamatia, Tripura, Noatia, Rupini, Murasing, and Uchoi.
- Radhamohan Thakur authored the first Kokborok grammar book, Kokborokma, published in 1900.
Why Kokborok Day Matters Today
- In the age of globalization, many indigenous languages are facing the threat of extinction.
- Kokborok Day reinforces the importance of linguistic diversity and cultural preservation.
- Promoting Kokborok supports mother-tongue education, strengthens tribal identity, and contributes to inclusive development.
- It aligns with India’s broader efforts to safeguard its intangible cultural heritage.
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