Who was Lachit Borphukan? Why is he known as ‘Shivaji of the Northeast’? Go beyond the nugget to learn about the Ahom kingdom and the battles of Alaboi and Saraighat.
Why is Lachit Borphukan known as the ‘Shivaji of the Northeast’? What were the battles of Alaboi and Saraighat? What was the Treaty of Yandabo? What is the new addition to UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites list from Assam? Take a look at the essential events, concepts, terms, quotes, or phenomena every day and brush up your knowledge. Here’s your knowledge nugget for today.
Knowledge Nugget: Lachit Borphukan
Subject: History
(Relevance: Lachit Borphukan is a significant historical figure. Notably, prominent historical figures form an important part of the history syllabus of UPSC CSE, and from time to time UPSC has asked questions about such personalities. Additionally, knowing about Lachit Borphukan is important because his legacy touches upon several important dimensions of India’s history.)
Why in the news?
Every year, 24th November is celebrated as the ‘Lachit Diwas’ to mark the birth anniversary of the Assamese folk hero Lachit Borphukan. He was a legendary army commander of the Ahom kingdom, known for his leadership in the 1671 ‘Battle of Saraighat.’ He is considered one of the greatest of Assamese heroes, symbolising the valour, courage, and intelligence that defines the Assamese self-identity.
Key Takeaways :
1.Lachit Borphukan was a legendary army commander of the Ahom kingdom. He defeated the Mughal forces, led by Raja Ramsingh-I, in the ‘Battle of Saraighat’, and thwarted a drawn-out attempt by them to take back Assam.
2. Son of the great warrior-statesman Momai Tamuli Barbarua, Lachit was born on November 24, 1622, and grew up during a turbulent period of Assam’s history.
3. He was chosen as one of the five Borphukans of the Ahom kingdom by king Charadhwaj Singha, and given administrative, judicial, and military responsibilities.
Source: TheIndianExpress
