Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita attended the Lachit Divas celebration organised by the Assam government at Hollongapar near Jorhat on Monday. The event marked the 443rd birth anniversary of Ahom General Lachit Barphukan.
Margherita paid floral tributes at Lachit Barphukan’s Maidam (burial tomb) and offered prayers at the site. The ceremony was held near the 125-feet tall statue of the Ahom commander, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled on March 9, 2024.
Assam Cultural Affairs Minister Bimal Borah and Jorhat District Commissioner Jay Shivani also attended the event.
Speaking at the event, Margherita said, “Lachit Barphukan was not just a military genius but the very embodiment of patriotism and courage. His strategic victory at Saraighat safeguarded the cultural and territorial integrity of Assam, and his legacy continues to inspire millions to serve the nation with selfless dedication.”
State Minister Bimal Borah stated, “Lachit Barphukan’s valour and sacrifice continue to inspire generations of Assamese people and all Indians. His unwavering commitment to protecting our motherland serves as a guiding light for our youth.”
Lachit Barphukan, born in 1622, served as the commander of Ahom forces under King Chakradhwaj Singha. He is best known for leading the Ahom army to victory against Mughal forces in the Battle of Saraighat in 1671. The battle, fought on the Brahmaputra River, is regarded as one of the most decisive naval confrontations in Indian history.
During the battle, Barphukan commanded the Ahom forces against a much larger Mughal army led by Ram Singh I. Despite being outnumbered and battling illness, he used superior military strategy and knowledge of local terrain to defeat the invaders. His famous statement “Dekhot koi mumai dangor nohoi” (My uncle is not greater than my country) when he ordered the execution of his own uncle for negligence demonstrated his uncompromising dedication to duty.
The National Defence Academy in Pune awards the Lachit Medal annually to the best passing-out cadet, honouring his memory and military excellence. The Assam government has made Lachit Divas an annual observance to commemorate the Ahom General’s contributions.
