Chilarai

Chilarai Biography

Chilarai - the younger brother of Nara Narayan was the commander-in-chief of the undivided Koch kingdom of Kamata. He was the third son of King Vishwa Singha. His brother Nara Narayan was the last ruler of the princely state. Chilarai played a significant role in expanding the kingdom of Nara Narayan. An accomplished warrior, Chilarai fought many successful battles against the enemies of the Koch kingdom, the most notable one against the Ahoms. Ek Saran Naam Dharma and cultural renaissance happened in Assam as a result of the deep bondage between Chilarai and saint Sankardev. Chilarai married Sankardev’s niece as well.

He protected Sankardev, Assamese polymath and saint from King’s orders and brought him safely to the Prince's Garden Palace where he was received with great honour. Naranarayana was mesmerised by the devotional songs sung by Sankardev and gave him a place next to his throne. Chilarai built a garden house for Sankardev and his followers, where he completed almost all of his major works. Vrindavani Vastra was woven under the supervision of Sankardev on request of Chilarai that depicted the playful activities of Krishna in Vrindavana. This work took one year to complete and is now preserved at the Victoria and Albert museum in London.

Chilarai was the third son of Maharaja Biswa Singha. His mother Padmavati belonged to Gaur. He belonged to Koch royal dynasty of Assam. He was born on a full moon day and hence given the birth name Shukladhwaj. He was given the name Chilarai, which literally means Kite King as he was one of the greatest generals of Indian nation. He passed away due to small pox, during the second invasion of Gaur. Bir Chilarai Award was instituted by Government of Assam in 2005 as the highest honour of bravery to individuals.

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Updated: September 24, 2017