Assam Government Approves Heritage Grant for Darrang Kings of Koch Dynasty

On February 2, 2026, the Assam government declared a ₹50 crore grant to preserve and restore the heritage of the Darrang kings belonging to the Koch dynasty. The announcement was made during the Mahabir Chilarai Divas celebrations in Darrang district. The move reflects the state’s effort to protect Assam’s rich past, honour indigenous rulers, and transform historical legacy into a centre of tourism and cultural pride.

Assam Govt. Grant To Preserve Koch Dynasty

• Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced financial support of ₹50 crore for preserving the heritage of the Darrang kingdom.
• The project will focus on restoring royal sites, monuments and cultural landmarks linked to the Koch dynasty.
• The Chief Minister directed the Darrang district administration and the Public Works Department to begin work immediately.
• He stressed that the restoration must reflect the dynasty’s historical importance and its contribution to Assam’s political and cultural evolution.

Who Were the Darrang Kings and the Koch Dynasty

• The Darrang kingdom was ruled by the Koch dynasty, one of the most powerful dynasties in medieval Assam.
• The Koch people rose to prominence after the decline of the Pal dynasty in ancient Kamarupa.
• The kingdom was founded by Biswa Singha and reached its peak under Maharaj Naranarayan.
• The dynasty played a central role in shaping Assam’s political boundaries, military strength and cultural identity.

Role of Mahabir Chilarai in Assam’s History

• Mahabir Chilarai, brother of Maharaj Naranarayan, is remembered as one of Assam’s greatest military leaders.
• Known for his lightning-fast battlefield attacks, he earned the name “Chilarai.”
• He built a strong and organized army with land and naval forces.
• His campaigns extended Koch influence across Ahom, Kachari, Jaintia, Tripura and Sylhet regions.
• The historic Gohain Kamal Ali Road stands as a symbol of his strategic and administrative vision.

Cultural and Religious Contributions of the Koch Rulers

• Under Naranarayan and Chilarai, Assam saw a revival of spiritual and cultural life.
• The reconstruction of important temples like Kamakhya and Hayagriva Madhav marked a renewal of religious traditions.
• These efforts strengthened Assam’s spiritual heritage and reinforced the Koch dynasty’s role not only as political rulers but also as cultural patrons who shaped Assamese identity for generations.

Additional Announcements

• During the event, the Chief Minister unveiled the statue of Maharaj Krishnanarayan of the Darrang kingdom and inaugurated Chilarai Bhawans at Mangaldoi and Golaghat.
• He also announced land allotment and construction of an office for the All Assam Koch Rajbongshi Sanmilani at Amingaon.
• These steps reaffirm the government’s commitment to preserving indigenous heritage and strengthening community identity.

Koch Dynasty (1515–1949)

Key Historical Milestones

Major Branches & Rulers

Question

Q. The Darrang kingdom was associated with which dynasty?

A. Ahom dynasty
B. Pal dynasty
C. Kachari dynasty
D. Koch dynasty