We all resonate with the patriotic tune of “Ye Desh hai Veer Jawano Ka,” honoring historical Indian warriors like Bhagat Singh, Subhash Chandra Bose, Lala Lajpat Rai and many more. The struggle for independence and its valiant fighters has always been a focal point in Indian history. However, it’s noteworthy that when we reflect on freedom fighters, the spotlight often falls on the fight against British colonial rule. India, with its rich history, has been a coveted gem, attracting various invaders beyond the British.
Muslim invasions, spanning over 200 years, form another chapter in India’s history. Despite being a land of peace, India faced numerous attacks from both East Asians and Europeans. While we hold the freedom fighters of the 19th and 20th centuries in high regard, it’s crucial to also pay homage to the heroes from all eras who served as protective pillars for our motherland. Among these unsung heroes are figures like veer Durga das Rathore, Maharana Pratap, Tanhaji, Lachit Borphukan and the list can go on and on naming the heroes who played crucial roles in liberating India from the Mughals.
As we delve into India’s rich history, it’s essential to uncover the stories of these unsung heroes. For true explorers of India, this blog is a must-read. Today, Mad4India will recount the tale of the unsung hero of Assam, Lachit Borphukan, who valiantly fought the Battle of Saraighat and safeguarded Assam from the threat of Aurangzeb.
Who was Lachit Borphukan
In the history of Assam, Lalit Borphukan is one of the unsung folk heroes who belonged to the 17th century. Lachit was the Ahom Army General of Assam who commanded the Ahom Army during the battle of Saraighat under King Ram Singh. He represented the Assamese resistance and bravery against the foreign invaders under all circumstances.
The battle of Saraighat was the last attempt of the Mughals to invade Assam. This battle was fought in the roaring waters of Brahmaputra against the Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb. Lachit fought bravely and was victorious forcing the Mughals to return from Guwahati.
Where was Lachit Borphukan born?
Lachit was born on 24th November 1622 in Chariadeo, Assam. He belonged to the royal family. He was the youngest son of Momai Tamuli Borbarua and Kunti Moran. His father, Momai Tamuli was the commander-in-chief of the Ahom Army under Prataap Singh. He also laid the foundation of Paik practices.
Early Life and Career of Lachit Borphukan
Lachit received his initial education in his own residence. He did his major in humanities and military strategies. Besides his military education, his father Momai Tamuli also appointed a special teacher who taught Lachit about the Hindu religion and Ahom scriptures and economics.
Lachit Borphukan served in various positions and those experiences made him a master in the field of military. For the first time, he was appointed as the commander of Hansthidhara Tamuli. He then entered into Ahom state politics as a personal assistant. However, his bravery and talent were refined when he was appointed to the position of Ghura Baruah. While serving in that position, he managed the horses and he also gained control over the exceptional horses.
Then he was also appointed as the chief officer of Shimaluguria games. After this, he completed the task of controlling the king’s Pala Paharia when the king was taken in Dula while serving the position of Dulakasharia Baruah.
Swargadeuw Chakradhwaj Singha who was impressed by the Lachit’s skills and bravery, appointed him as the Commander-in-chief.
Lachit Borphukan Story of Victory
Lachit Borphukan story of Victory started in 1662 when Assam was invaded by the army of Aurangzeb under the leadership of Mirjumala. They extracted tax from the state of Ahom as it was a tax-based state. In order to defeat the Mughals, the King entrusted Lachit with the responsibility of “Senapati”. Lachit led the army in the campaign against the Mughals who had captured Guhwati.
To mark his bravery, King Chakardhwaj also presented a gold sword called “Hengdeng.” In order to fight the war, Lachit raised the army and preparations were completed by 1667. After a long war, he recovered Guhwati from the Mughals during the Battle of Saraighat.
Battle of Saraighat
When Aurangzeb got to know about the defeat of the Mughals and the release of Guhwati. He sent more expeditionary forces from Dhaka under Ram Singh to take the revenge. In front of those forces, the Ahom Army was falling weak but Lachit used guerilla tactics to get away from the Mughal army.
Mughals understood that until Lachit led the Ahom army, till then they could not win. So, Ram Singh tried to manipulate the king, Chakardhwaj Singha by sending him a letter stating that Lachit had been paid 1 lakh rupees to evacuate Guhwati. Chakardhwaj was enraged, and he questioned Lachit’s sincerity. However, Atan Buragohain, his prime minister, convinced King Chakardhwaj that this was a Mughal ruse, and he dismissed Lachit, who had previously fought with the Mughals.
By the end of the battle of Saraighat, when the Mughals attacked by the river in Saraighat, the Asammese army began to lose their confidence but Lachit Burphokan didn’t give up and fought till the end and emerged victorious by sending the Mughals away from the boundaries of Assam.
When did Lachit Borphukan die?
After one year of the battle, Lachit died due to natural causes. His remains lie rest at the Lachit Maidaan built in 1672 by Swargdao Udayaditya Singha. Lachit Borphukan is an unsung hero who is the symbol of indomitable courage. His selfless and visionary leadership contributed in the freedom of Assam from the Mughals.
Celebration of Lachit Diwas
Every year, on 24th November, Lachit Diwas is celebrated to pay honour and respect to the heroism of Lachit Borphukan and the victory of the Assamese army at the battle of Saraighat. This year, 2023, Narender Modi gave a speech in order to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Lachit Borphukan.
Apart from this, Since 1999, Assam state has been presenting the Mahabir Lachit Award to deserving Assamese notables for their exceptional work.
Remembering this great solider through his biography
In the remembrance of Lachit Borphukan, his life is turned into a biography by many writers. There is one Lachit Borphukan biography, “The Legend of Lachit Borphukan” written by Nilutpal Gohain. This Lachit Borphukan biography is soon to be adopted in a movie by Almighty Motion Pictures.
Mad4India admire that the history of India has such great warriors like Lachit Borphukan and salutes them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the Ahoms?
Ahom is an ethnic group that belongs to the state of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. They are descendants of Tai people who came to Brahmaputra valley in 1228.
When was the battle of Saraighat fought?
The battle of Saraighat was fought in March 1671 between the Ahom kingdom and the Mughals.
Who defeated the Mughals 17 times?
The Ahom Kingdom defeated the Mughals 17 times. This is the only dynasty that didn’t kneel down in front of the Mughals.
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If you loved reading the history of Lachit Borphukan, then do read about the Hindu Kush, the most beautiful place in the world, where you have gone but never knew about its location.
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