MANGALDAI, Jan 31 - The Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam, in association with the Darrang district administration, centrally observed the 508th birth anniversary of Bir Chilarai here today.
A public function was organised on the historic Mangaldai Gandhi Maidan where Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal was the chief guest. Speaking on the occasion, Sonowal paid rich tribute to Chilarai and called him a symbol of bravery and strength. Chilarai was a true patriot full of human values and deep love for nature, the Chief Minister said.
Sonowal highlighted the multifaceted personality of Chilarai, including in the field of literature and culture, and stressed the importance of following Chilarai�s ideals by the youths of the State.
The function was also attended by several prominent guests including Naba Kumar Doley, Minister of State for Cultural Affairs, Ramen Deka, Mangaldai MP, MLAs of Mangaldai and Sipajhar, Gurujyoti Das and Binanda Kumar Saikia respectively, Darrang DC Ashok Kumar Barman, Dr Jyotirmoy Pradhani, professor of North East Hill University and family members of the royal Koch family.
Various cultural programmes based on Koch Rajbongshi folk music were also held on the occasion. Prior to his public address, the Chief Minister offered floral tribute on the statue of Bir Chilarai located at the campus of the Chilarai Bhawan at Ward No. 6 here.
A large number of people attended the function today. A souvenir was also released by minister Doley.