The 511th birth anniversary of Mahabir Chilarai wasobserved as Chilarai Divas in different parts of Assam on Sunday. The All KochRajbongshi Students' Union (AKRSU) held programmes in lower Assam to mark theoccasion.

Bir Chilarai (1510 – 1571 AD) – was a great generalwho belonged to the Koch royal dynasty of Assam. By his valour, he played asignificant role in expanding the empire of his elder brother, Maharaja NaraNarayan.

The Koch dynasty set up their kingdom in the westernpart of Assam after the fall of Khen dynasty in 1498 AD and Chandan was crownedking of Kamata kingdom. Maharaja Chandan ruled for thirteen years but as he hadno sons, after his death Viswa Singha was enthroned.

Meanwhile, Arjuna award winner Bhogeswar Baruah will be conferred with Bir Chilarai Award by the State Government today in the official celebration of Chilarai Divas in Bongaigaon.