A STUDY ON THE ROLE OF KOKBOROK LANGUAGE IN CULTURAL PRESERVATION FOR THE INDIGENOUS TIPRA PEOPLES OF TRIPURA

Kokborok,the indigenous language of the Tipra (Tripuri) people,is central to their cultural identity,oral traditions, and rituals. However, linguistic marginalization, modernization, and the dominance of Bengali and English have led to its decline.This study, using ethnographic methods, interviews, and textual analysis, examines Kokborok's role in cultural preservation, the challenges it faces, and ongoing revitalization efforts. Findings reveal that while Kokborok thrives in oral traditions and religious practices,urbanization,education policies,and limited media presence are contributing to linguistic shifts. Despite this, community initiatives, digital engagement, and activism offer hope for revitalization.The study recommends educational reforms, increased digital content, community-driven documentation, and intergenerational transmission to sustain the language. It highlights the need for institutional and grassroots efforts to ensure Kokborok's survival in the face of socio-political changes, reinforcing its significance in indigenous identity and cultural sustainability