Lachit Borphukan was a commander and councilor in the Ahom Kingdom. The Ahom Kingdom resisted the invasion of the Mughal Empire several times and reigned in present-day Assam for over 600 years. Born on November 24, 1622, Lachit Barphukan is often referred to as the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj of northeast India.
Source- The Print
The Ahom Dynasty was founded in 1228 in Assam’s Brahmaputra Valley. The first King of the Ahom Kingdom was Chaolung Sukaphaa, who crossed the Patkai mountainous region to reach the Brahmaputra valley.
The Mughals conquered the Ahom capital of Garhgaon in 1662 but were defeated in later battles. Finally, during the battle of Saraighat in 1671, the Ahoms led by Lachit Borphukan successfully defeated the Mughals.
While the Mughals were at the height of their power, they were unable to consolidate their rule in Assam and the Northeast. Despite 17 attempts to conquer Assam, the Mughals failed each time. Marshals like Veer Lachit Barphukan kept Assam from falling to the invaders.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma released a theme song, composed by renowned singer Zubin Garg, as part of its ongoing celebration of the 400th birth anniversary of the Ahom general. The song was a tribute to the sacrifice of ‘Mahabir’ Lachit, Sarma said, hoping that it would boost “nationalistic fervour” among the people.
Source- NewsonAIR
A programme will be organized in New Delhi too from 23rd to 25th November 2022. During the event, a documentary based on the life of the Lachit Barphukan will also be launched. In February, this year, former President Ram Nath Kovind launched the celebration. The former President laid the foundation stone of a 150-foot bronze statue of Borphukan at Hollongapar in Jorhat, Assam.
“His unflagging valor and determination ensured the culture, identity and uniqueness of the northeastern region remained intact,” wrote Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in the letter addressed to his counterparts in other states.
