Guwahati, 24th February: In commemoration of the 514th birth anniversary of Bir Chilarai, Chilarai Divas is being observed in various parts of the state with fervor, highlighting his significant contributions to Assamese history.
Chilarai Divas was celebrated on February 24 with a day-long program at Kumar Bhaskar Barman Kshetra, Amingaon in Guwahati. The event, organized by the Department of Cultural Affairs in association with the All Assam Koch Rajbongshi Sammelan, witnessed the presence of State Minister of Environment and Forest, Chandra Mohan Patowary, and MP, Jayant Mallabaruah, as chief guests. The All Assam Koch Rajbongshi Sammelan President, Pranav Narayan Deb, also attended the event.
The festivities included discussions and cultural programs aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of Chilarai’s legacy among attendees.
In a notable highlight, the Dibrugarh District Koch Rajbonshi Students’ Union (AKRSU) honored Dibrugarh Xahitya Xabha president and Principal of DHS Kanoi College, renowned social worker Dr. Sashi Kanta Saikia, with the ‘Bir Chilarai Award-2024’ on the occasion of Bir Chilarai Divas.
To honor the courageous and heroic deeds of the great general of Assam, the Chilarai Divas date is observed on a full moon night in February (Magh). Since 2005, the birth anniversary of Mahabir Chilarai has been organized by the Government of Assam annually. It is declared a regional public holiday in the state, falling in Phagun Maah of Purnima according to the Hindu calendar.
Shukladhwaja, later known as Chilarai, served as the military chief commander of the Koch Royal Dynasty of the Kamata Kingdom in the 16th century. He played a pivotal role in expanding the empire of his elder brother, Maharaja Nara Narayan. His demise from smallpox on the banks of the Ganges River in 1577, while leading an invasion of Gour in western India, marks the end of a heroic saga of courage and bravery. The tale of Mahabir Chilarai, a brave warrior known for his swiftness akin to the bird Chiloni or kite, continues to inspire generations.
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