Bir Chilarai Divas can be commemorated by offering this Assamese Dish!
Bir Chilarai Divas is a holiday celebrated in Assam, India, to commemorate the life and achievements of the famous Ahom general and military strategist, Bir Chilarai. People in Assam pay homage to Bir Chilarai by visiting his shrines and offering prayers.
Bir Chilarai (1497-1567) was a famous Ahom general and military strategist in medieval Assam, India. He was a key figure in the expansion of the Ahom kingdom and played a crucial role in defending against Mughal invasions. Bir Chilarai is considered one of the greatest military leaders in Assam’s history.
During the celebration of Bir Chilarai Divas in Assam, India, people often visit shrines dedicated to the legendary Ahom general and offer prayers. Offerings at the shrines may include flowers, incense, and traditional foods. People may also perform cultural dances and sing devotional songs in honor of Bir Chilarai. The purpose of these offerings and activities is to pay homage and show respect to the military leader and his contributions to the region.
During the celebration of Bir Chilarai Divas, traditional foods that are often offered at the shrines dedicated to the legendary Ahom general include rice cakes, Rice Pitha and dried fruits. People may also offer fresh fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, coconuts, and mangoes, as a symbol of prosperity and good health.
Here is a simple recipe for making Assamese rice cakes to serve as an offering to his shrine:
Assamese Rice Cakes
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Pan
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp ghee
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the rice flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the water to the mixture, stirring continuously, until a smooth batter forms.
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add the ghee.
- Scoop a spoonful of batter into the pan and spread it evenly to form a thin circular cake.
- Cook the cake on both sides until it turns light golden brown.
- Repeat the process with the remaining batter to make more cakes.
- Serve the rice cakes hot as an offering or as a snack.
Notes
The original Bir Chilarai’s shrine is located in the present-day Sivasagar district of Assam, India. The exact location of the shrine is in the historic town of Joysagar, which was once the capital of the Ahom kingdom. The shrine is a popular pilgrimage site for those who wish to pay homage to the legendary Ahom general and military strategist. People from all over Assam and neighboring regions visit the shrine on Bir Chilarai Divas, which is celebrated on the full moon night in February, to offer prayers and make offerings.
