Heritage Reborn: Jongal Balahu Tourism Complex to Open on March 4

The historic Jongal Balahu modern tourism complex in Raha is set to be officially opened to the public, marking a major boost to heritage tourism in Assam. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma will inaugurate the newly constructed tourism site on March 4, Raha MLA Shashikanta Das announced.

Jongal Balahu, a legendary Tiwa king and warrior, hailed from the 14th century. He was the son of King Arimatta and famed for his courageous defense of his central Assamese kingdom.

Regarded as the forefather of the Tiwa community, King Jongal Balahu built a seven-layered fort to safeguard his capital. For years, Tiwa organisations had been demanding preservation of this historic complex and its development into a tourism centre. Responding to these demands, the state government sanctioned funds to revitalise the heritage site, which has now emerged as a vibrant cultural destination.

The Assam government had allocated ₹90 crore to transform the historically significant Jongal Balahu fort—the capital of legendary warrior king Jongal Balahu—into a modern tourist destination. With construction now complete, the site is ready to welcome visitors following its formal inauguration.

The tourism complex highlights various aspects of Tiwa heritage through cultural artefacts, traditional motifs, and sculptures. Architectural structures inspired by Tiwa traditions—including Dekachang, Barghar, and Tongighar—have been constructed using modern techniques. The facility also houses a museum, library, auditorium, guest house, and a traditional Tiwa ethnic restaurant.

Historically, the 13th-century ruler fortified his capital with seven defensive layers. Although he later died during an attack by the Kachari king, his legacy endured through folklore and historical memory. After India’s independence, in 1954, the Assam government converted the large ponds in the area into government fishery farms. However, inadequate preservation over the decades led to deterioration of the fort remains, and the king’s legacy gradually faded from public consciousness.

The government’s recent initiative to revive the historically significant site is expected to restore cultural pride and reintroduce the legendary ruler’s legacy to younger generations, while simultaneously strengthening tourism in the region.

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