DHEMAJI, Feb 28 - The 506th birth anniversary of Veer Chilarai was centrally observed at North Dhemaji on Shantipur Ranganoi High School premises as Chilarai Divas with a two-day programme under the auspices of the Dhemaji Jila Koch-Rajbongshi Sanmilani with much fervour.
The programme started with ceremonial lighting of lamps on February 21 followed by unfurling of flag by Bimal Dutta, president of Dhemaji Jila Koch-Rabongshi Sanmilani. Then tributes were paid to Veer Chilarai which was initiated by Thaneswar Kakati. It was followed by a delegates� session at noon.
On the second day, a cultural procession was taken out at around 9 am with participation of several ethnic cultural groups. The rally was inaugurated by Phanindra Nath Dutta, working president of the district Koch-Rajbongshi Sanmilani.
An open meeting was organized on the occasion at noon with Phanindra Nath Dutta in the chair. The purpose of the meeting was stated by Hemuram Borah, joint secretary of the celebration committee. Bipin Borah, headmaster of the Jamuguri Panchali High School, inaugurated the meeting.
Addressing the meeting as appointed speaker, litterateur and veteran journalist Umesh Chetia spoke on the bravery and patriotism of Veer Chilarai. He also laid stress on making a documentary film on Veer Chilarai�s heroic and religious activities.
The open meeting was attended by Swapnaneel Deka, Superintendent of Police, Dhemaji, as distinguished guest. Poet Robin Koch recited a self-composed poem on Chilarai in the meeting.
It may be mentioned here that in the delegates� meeting held on February 21, the Dhemaji Jila Koch-Rajbongshi Sanmilani was reconstituted with Bimal Dutta as president, Phanindra Nath Dutta as working president, Khageswar Tamuly as secretary, Nityananda Talukdar as State member and Tapan Talukdar as treasurer.
The delegates� meeting also adopted several proposals with the demand for inclusion of Koch-Rajbongshi community to Schedule Tribe status soon.
