Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, officially opened the newly built Chilarai Bhavan in Sivasagar on Sunday. The ceremony was a vibrant celebration of the cultural heritage of the Koch community.
A Monument to a Legendary Strategist
Constructed with an estimated investment of Rs 2.2 crore, the complex stands as a dedicated memorial to the legendary military strategist, Bir Chilarai. The inauguration event saw the presence of notable figures including Thowra MLA Sushanta Borgohain and the chairman of the Koch Rajbangshi Development Council, Kumar Pranab Narayan Dev.
This modern facility is designed to act as a central hub for community gatherings and the preservation of culture. It aims to actively promote the rich and storied history of the Koch-Rajbangshi people for generations to come.
Honoring the 'Kite Prince' of Assam
Bir Chilarai, originally named Sukladhwaja, lived from 1510 to 1571 AD and is one of the most revered icons in Assam's history. He was the third son of Biswa Singha, the founder of the Koch Dynasty, and the younger brother of the great King Nara Narayan. Chilarai held the dual, crucial roles of commander-in-chief and finance minister (dewan) for the Kamata Kingdom.
His title, 'Chilarai', meaning 'Kite Prince', was earned due to his extraordinary brilliance and swiftness in military strategy. During the inauguration, Minister Margherita emphasized the importance of honoring such local heroes to inspire the youth.
"The inauguration of the Chilarai Bhavan will help in preserving the legacy of a warrior who unified regions and protected our cultural identity. Bir Chilarai’s swiftness and strategic mind are legendary, and this centre will ensure his contributions are never forgotten," Margherita stated.
A Milestone for Community and Infrastructure
MLA Sushanta Borgohain highlighted that the project's completion marks a significant milestone for the district's infrastructure development. He pointed out that the community now possesses a state-of-the-art venue for their socio-cultural events.
"The Koch Rajbangshi community now has a state-of-the-art facility to host their socio-cultural events while keeping the spirit of Mahabir Chilarai alive in Sivasagar," Borgohain said.
The Koch Dynasty was a dominant force in the 16th century, extending its influence across modern-day Assam, North Bengal, and parts of Bangladesh. Chilarai was instrumental in these expansions, famously leading his brother's armies to decisive victories against powerful kingdoms like the Ahoms.
The new Chilarai Bhavan is more than just a building; it is a beacon for cultural pride and historical education in the heart of Sivasagar.
