Guwahati, Aug 16 (V7N) – The Assam government’s decision to name the upcoming Dighalipukhuri–Noonmati flyover after the medieval Kamrup ruler Prithu Maharaj has been widely praised by nationalist civic groups, who now call for a life-size statue of the legendary warrior king to be erected alongside the structure.

The Patriotic People’s Front Assam (PPFA), in a statement, welcomed the move as a meaningful gesture to honour the region’s historical figures and preserve cultural heritage. Prithu Maharaj, also known as Visvasundaradeva, is remembered for defeating Turkish-Afghan invader Muhammad Bakhtiyar Khilji in 1206 CE, effectively halting Khilji’s attempted advance through the region.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, speaking during Independence Day celebrations in Khanapara, announced the renaming of the 5-kilometre four-lane flyover as part of an initiative to highlight local heroes who defended the land from foreign invasion. He referred to the move as a “sacred duty” to inspire future generations with stories of indigenous resistance.

According to historical accounts cited by PPFA, after failing to invade Tibet, Khilji attempted to return through Kamrup territory where his forces were destroyed by Prithu in a decisive battle near present-day North Guwahati. Khilji, infamous for razing Buddhist institutions like Nalanda and Vikramshila, was ultimately killed by his own general, Ali Mardan, during the retreat.

The PPFA also noted that Prithu had united various tribal communities—including Bodo, Koch-Rajbongshi, and Keot—in the defense of Kamrup’s sovereignty and cultural identity, where Sanskrit was the official administrative language.

Although Assam now observes March 27 as Mahavijay Diwas to commemorate Prithu’s triumph, the group expressed concern that his contributions remain largely unrecognized in wider Indian historical discourse. The forum urged the state to honor the king’s legacy not just with naming rights but also through public installations that reflect his significance in safeguarding regional heritage.

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