Lachit Diwas (24 November): History, Lachit Borphukan, Battle of Saraighat and UPSC Relevance

Lachit Diwas is observed every year on 24 November in Assam to commemorate the birth anniversary of Lachit Borphukan, the legendary military commander of the Ahom Kingdom. He is remembered for his leadership and strategic brilliance during the Battle of Saraighat in 1671, in which the Ahom forces defeated the Mughal army led by Raja Ram Singh I.

Lachit Borphukan's victory prevented the Mughal expansion into the Brahmaputra Valley and became a defining episode in the military history of medieval Assam. His courage, discipline and commitment to protecting his kingdom continue to inspire generations.

From a UPSC CSE perspective, this topic is relevant to GS Paper I, particularly medieval Indian history, regional kingdoms, Mughal-Ahom relations and military developments. It also connects with GS Paper IV through leadership, patriotism, duty and strategic decision-making.

History and Significance of Lachit Diwas

Lachit Diwas is celebrated on 24 November, the birth anniversary of Lachit Borphukan, who was born in 1622. The day commemorates his military leadership and the resistance of the Ahom Kingdom against Mughal expansion in the northeastern region of India. The observance is particularly significant in Assam, where Lachit Borphukan is remembered as a symbol of regional pride, courage and resistance.

In 2022, the country commemorated his 400th birth anniversary through year-long celebrations. The celebrations were inaugurated in Guwahati in February 2022, and the concluding national-level programme was held in New Delhi in November 2022.

Who Was Lachit Borphukan?

Lachit Borphukan was a prominent military commander of the Ahom Kingdom of Assam. He was born on 24 November 1622 at Charaideo, according to several historical accounts. He was the son of Momai Tamuli Borbarua, an influential administrator and military officer under the Ahom ruler Pratap Singha, and Kunti Moran.

Lachit grew up in an environment shaped by the political and military challenges faced by the Ahom Kingdom. He received education in humanities, military strategy and the traditions of the Ahom state. Before becoming Borphukan, he served in different administrative and military positions. His abilities eventually led to his appointment as the commander responsible for defending the western frontier of the Ahom Kingdom. The title Borphukan referred to an important military and administrative office in the Ahom political system.

Background: Ahom Kingdom and Mughal Expansion

The Ahom Kingdom was established in 1228 by Sukaphaa, a Tai prince who entered the Brahmaputra Valley and laid the foundation of the Ahom state. The Ahoms gradually established a powerful kingdom in present-day Assam and maintained their political independence for several centuries. The Mughal-Ahom conflict emerged as the Mughal Empire attempted to extend its authority into the northeastern region.

Major Developments in Mughal-Ahom Relations

1. Beginning of Mughal-Ahom Conflict (1615)

The Mughal-Ahom conflict began in 1615 during the reign of Ahom king Pratap Singha. The Mughals sought to expand their influence in the Brahmaputra Valley, leading to repeated military confrontations.

2. Battle of Saraighat's Historical Background

During the reign of Ahom king Jayadhwaj Singha, Mughal forces under Mir Jumla invaded Assam in 1662. The invasion resulted in the occupation of important Ahom territories, including Garhgaon, the Ahom capital. The conflict ended with the Treaty of Ghilajharighat in 1663, under which the Ahoms accepted several unfavourable conditions, including territorial concessions and the payment of indemnities.

3. Ahom Resistance under Chakradhwaj Singha

After Jayadhwaj Singha's death, Chakradhwaj Singha became the Ahom ruler in 1663. He resolved to recover the territories lost to the Mughals and appointed Lachit Borphukan as an important military commander. The Ahom forces gradually regained control over territories in the western part of the kingdom, including Guwahati in 1667. The Mughal emperor Aurangzeb subsequently ordered a military campaign under Raja Ram Singh I to recover the lost territories.

Appointment of Lachit Borphukan as Commander

Lachit Borphukan was appointed to lead the Ahom forces during the campaign against the Mughals. He strengthened the military organisation, improved defensive arrangements and prepared the Ahom army to resist the Mughal advance. His strategy focused on using the geographical advantages of Assam, particularly the Brahmaputra River, its tributaries, hills and difficult terrain.

He understood that the Mughal army possessed considerable resources and cavalry strength, while the Ahom forces had advantages in local knowledge and river-based warfare.His military preparations became particularly important during the Battle of Saraighat.

Battle of Alaboi (1669): A Turning Point

• Before the Battle of Saraighat, the Ahom and Mughal forces fought the Battle of Alaboi in 1669.

• The battle took place in the Alaboi Hills region near present-day Guwahati.

• The Mughal forces inflicted heavy casualties on the Ahom army, exposing the challenges of confronting the Mughal cavalry in open-field warfare.

• The defeat strengthened the resolve of the Ahom leadership to avoid fighting the Mughals on terrain that favoured their cavalry.

• Lachit Borphukan subsequently focused on defensive preparations and river-based military tactics, making the Brahmaputra an important part of the Ahom strategy.

Battle of Saraighat (1671)

The Battle of Saraighat, fought in 1671 on the Brahmaputra River near Guwahati, was the most significant military achievement associated with Lachit Borphukan. The Mughal army was led by Raja Ram Singh I, while the Ahom forces were commanded by Lachit Borphukan. The Mughal objective was to regain control over Guwahati and extend imperial authority into the Brahmaputra Valley.

Military Strategy of Lachit Borphukan

1. Use of Geographical Advantages

Lachit used the narrow river passages, hills and surrounding terrain to restrict the movement of the larger Mughal forces. The Brahmaputra became a major defensive advantage for the Ahom army.

2. River-Based Warfare

The Ahom forces used smaller and more manoeuvrable boats to challenge the larger Mughal fleet. Their knowledge of the river and its currents helped them execute coordinated attacks against the Mughal naval forces.

3. Defensive Fortifications

The Ahoms strengthened defensive positions around Guwahati and established military arrangements to restrict the movement of the invading army.

4. Leadership During Illness

According to historical accounts, Lachit Borphukan was seriously ill during the final phase of the Battle of Saraighat. When the Mughal forces advanced towards the Ahom positions, he joined the naval confrontation despite his illness. His presence encouraged the Ahom soldiers to continue fighting and contributed to the eventual victory.

Outcome of the Battle of Saraighat

The Ahom forces defeated the Mughal army and prevented its attempt to capture Guwahati. The victory checked Mughal expansion into the Brahmaputra Valley and preserved the political independence of the Ahom Kingdom. The battle is remembered as an important example of effective river-based military strategy and the use of geographical advantages against a larger invading force.

Death of Lachit Borphukan

Lachit Borphukan died on 25 April 1672, approximately a year after the Battle of Saraighat. He died due to illness and was buried at Lachit Maidam, located at Hoolungapara near Jorhat in Assam. His military achievements and leadership became an important part of Assam's historical memory.

Lachit Borphukan's Legacy and National Recognition

Lachit Borphukan's contribution has received recognition through several institutions and commemorative initiatives.

1. Lachit Borphukan Gold Medal at the National Defence Academy

In 1999, the Lachit Borphukan Gold Medal was instituted at the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla, Pune. The medal is awarded to the best cadet demonstrating exceptional leadership and performance.

2. 400th Birth Anniversary Celebrations (2022)

The Government of India and the Government of Assam organised year-long programmes to commemorate his 400th birth anniversary. The celebrations highlighted his contribution to Assam's history and India's military heritage.

3. National Recognition

The Government of India has undertaken initiatives to bring greater national recognition to Lachit Borphukan's contribution to the defence of the Ahom Kingdom and resistance against Mughal expansion.

4. Lachit Maidam

Lachit Maidam at Hoolungapara near Jorhat is an important historical memorial associated with the Ahom general. It preserves the memory of his life and military achievements.

Why is the Battle of Saraighat Historically Important?

1. Checked Mughal Expansion: The victory prevented the Mughal army from establishing control over Guwahati and the Brahmaputra Valley.

2. Preserved Ahom Independence: The battle helped protect the political autonomy of the Ahom Kingdom.

3. Demonstrated Naval Warfare Skills: The Ahom forces effectively used river-based tactics and smaller boats against a larger Mughal fleet.

4. Highlighted Regional Resistance: The battle illustrates the role of regional kingdoms in resisting the expansion of the Mughal Empire.

5. Demonstrated Strategic Leadership: Lachit Borphukan's military decisions highlight the importance of geographical knowledge, discipline, preparation and leadership.

Lachit Diwas and UPSC CSE Relevance

The topic is relevant to medieval Indian history, regional kingdoms, military developments and the political history of Northeast India.

Prelims Pointers

Mains Relevance

Important Mains Question:

"Discuss the significance of the Battle of Saraighat in checking Mughal expansion in Northeast India. Examine the role of Lachit Borphukan in preserving the political independence of the Ahom Kingdom."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When is Lachit Diwas celebrated?

Lachit Diwas is celebrated every year on 24 November in Assam to commemorate the birth anniversary of Lachit Borphukan, the Ahom military commander who led the Ahom forces to victory against the Mughals in the Battle of Saraighat in 1671.

2. Who was Lachit Borphukan?

Lachit Borphukan was a prominent military commander of the Ahom Kingdom of Assam. He is remembered for his leadership during the Battle of Saraighat in 1671, when the Ahom forces defeated the Mughal army led by Raja Ram Singh I.

3. Who fought the Battle of Saraighat in 1671?

The Battle of Saraighat was fought between the Ahom Kingdom and the Mughal Empire. The Ahom army was commanded by Lachit Borphukan, while the Mughal forces were led by Raja Ram Singh I.

4. Why is the Battle of Saraighat important?

The Battle of Saraighat is important because the Ahom victory prevented the Mughal army from capturing Guwahati and expanding its authority into the Brahmaputra Valley. It demonstrated the effectiveness of river-based warfare and strategic use of local geography.

5. What is the Lachit Borphukan Gold Medal?

The Lachit Borphukan Gold Medal was instituted at the National Defence Academy in 1999. It is awarded annually to the best cadet, recognising leadership and overall performance.

Conclusion

Lachit Diwas is an occasion to remember the military leadership and strategic contribution of Lachit Borphukan. His victory at the Battle of Saraighat demonstrated how geographical knowledge, effective planning, discipline and leadership could help a regional kingdom resist a powerful imperial army.

His legacy is not limited to Assam's history. It forms an important part of India's wider historical narrative, highlighting the contribution of regional powers in resisting imperial expansion and protecting their political independence.

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