Lachit Borphukan: Celebrating the Legacy of Assam’s Iconic Warrior

Why in the News ?

On the occasion of Lachit Diwas, the Prime Minister paid homage to Lachit Borphukan, honouring him as a timeless symbol of courage, leadership, patriotism, and military excellence.

Early Life of Lachit Borphukan

• Born: 24 November 1622, at Charaideo, the first capital of the Ahom Kingdom in Assam.
• He was the youngest son of Momai Tamuli Borbarua, a distinguished military and administrative officer under Ahom King Pratap Singha.
• From a young age, he received training in:
  • Administration
  • Military warfare
  • Diplomatic strategy
  • Scriptures and statecraft

Growing up during continuous Ahom–Mughal conflicts, he developed a strong strategic mindset.

Rise to Leadership

• His talents led to his appointment as the Borphukan (Commander-in-Chief) of the Ahom forces.
• His primary mission was to reclaim areas of Assam lost to Mughal occupation, especially after the Mir Jumla invasion.

Battle of Saraighat (1671)

The Battle of Saraighat, fought on the Brahmaputra River, remains one of India’s most celebrated military victories.

Key Aspects

• The Mughal army, led by Raja Ram Singh I, launched a large-scale campaign to conquer Assam.
• Lachit Borphukan countered them using:
  • Guerrilla tactics
  • Riverine naval warfare
  • Defensive fortifications
• Strategic mobility aided by local terrain knowledge

Outcome

• Lachit’s leadership ensured a decisive Ahom victory, forcing the Mughal forces to retreat.
• The victory:
  • Prevented Mughal expansion into Northeast India,
  • Preserved Assamese sovereignty,
  • Marked one of the greatest naval engagements in Indian history.

Legacy and Recognition

End of an Era

• Lachit Borphukan passed away in 1672, shortly after his greatest victory.
• A memorial known as Lachit Maidan stands near Jorhat to honour him.

National Recognition

• Lachit Diwas is observed on 24 November annually.
• The prestigious Lachit Borphukan Gold Medal at the National Defence Academy (NDA) is awarded to the best cadet in “leadership and excellence”.

Symbol of Inspiration

Lachit Borphukan is remembered for:

• Unmatched bravery
• Remarkable military strategy
• Dedication to his motherland
• Defence of cultural and political identity

He remains an enduring figure of national pride.

Significance of Lachit Borphukan 

• Highlights regional resistance to imperial expansion in medieval India.
• Demonstrates indigenous models of naval warfare and asymmetric strategy.
• Crucial for understanding Ahom administrative and military structures.
• Represents India's long tradition of defence leadership and patriotism.