The Ahom dynasty (also known as the Kingdom of Assam in the medieval period) is one of the most remarkable and influential regimes in India's northeastern history. Ruling the states of the northeastern region of Assam, this dynasty has conserved its sovereignty for approximately 600 years, from 1228 to 1826 and successfully resisted the expansion of the Mughals in north-east India. The Ahom dynasty not only played a critical role in enhancing the politics and culture of the region but also worked rigorously to maintain the legacy and identity of Assam. This article assembles many facets of this powerhouse of Assam-from their origin, military campaign, administration and cultural contribution towards the society.
Origins and foundation
The Ahom Dynasty emerged from its origin in 1228 when a Tai
Prince (named Sukaphaa) migrated with his disciples from Yunnan (nowadays a
modern China) to the Brahmaputra valley. Initially, Sukaphaa has confronted
various indigenous communities such as Morans, Barahi, and Bodo-Kacharis while
founding the fertile land and setting up his rule. Instead of indulging in any
conquest, Sukaphaa used the amicable relationship and strong diplomacy to
include these groups in his regime. He established his capital in Charaideo by
establishing a prolonged-ruled dynasty in Indian history.
Within the timeline of the 13th century, this king took control of upper Assam. Sukaphaa has maintained the loyalty of all ethnic communities, embedded flexibility within the administration.
Administrative and political innovation of the Ahom Dynasty in Assam
Centralised ruling and Paik system
One of the significant aspects related to the Ahom Kingdom’s
success was associated with their centralised administration. The Kingdom was categorised
into multiple provinces (known as Mauzas), and respected officials have been
appointed for each to govern them efficiently. The king was the supreme
authority which was assisted by the high-designated officials like
Borpatrogohain. They were also authorised to monitor the administrative and
military affairs.
Paik system
The Kingdom was also famous for its distinctive
administrative innovation, such as the Paik System, which is referred to as a
unique form of labour and military conscription. Every male adult was bestowed
with the responsibilities in civil and military roles in the rotational shift
that enabled them to lead a robust workforce and a concrete military by
avoiding the huge taxation.
Military power of the Ahom dynasty
The battle of Saraighat
One of the momentous events due to the Ahom-Mughal conflict
became the reason for the battle of Saraighat in 1671 CE. Ahoms have
successfully fought the various invasions laid by the Mughals in this war. The
Mughal governor in Bengal, Mir Jumla, had occupied Kamrup (nowadays the
Guwahati) and ultimately captured Garhgon, the capital of Ahom at that time.
Under the legendary leadership of Lachit Borphukan (an appointed
commander-in-chief), the Ahoms defeated the Mughal invasion on the Brahmaputra
River, which helped to secure Assam’s independence.
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Religious and cultural contribution of the Ahom dynasty of Assam
Patronage of architecture and arts
The Ahom dynasty is not an exception in playing a pivotal
role in uplifting the Assamese culture. The dynasty has enshrined the
literature, architecture and the religious institutions. Rang Ghar, the first
pavilion of the continent Asia or the first amphitheatre, is the contribution
of the Ahom dynasty that was specially built for the enjoyment of recreational
and sports activities and dedicated to the Royal families. Another epitome of
Ahom’s architectural glory is the Talatal Ghar, which is the biggest among all
the monuments created by the Ahom. It is epitomising the biggest military base
underground.
Ahoms followed Tai principles at the start, but they had adopted Hinduism. The people from this dynasty have believed in the deities and natural spirits along with the religious practices and rituals that appease those spirits. Over the specific time period, they have embraced other communities and cultures and have begun to follow the principles of Hinduism.
Agricultural and economic development by the Ahom dynasty
The role of the Ahom was to deploy advanced farming techniques
The Paik system laid out the Ahom Dynasty's economy. The
rulers implemented the superior irrigation projects and also granted the lands
to boost agriculture. They have used the fertile and flourishing Brahmaputra
valley for the cultivation of crops.
They have introduced the wet rice farming process in the upper Assam, which was a sparsely populated and claggy region. The Ahoms has also employed the advanced rice cultivation technique and land reclamation process with the help of irrigation system, dykes and embankments. Ahom King has also promoted the sale and production of fabrics and silk threads of Assam in multiple markets, which promoted the traditional silk weaving process specifically for the Eri and Muga silk. It has not only encouraged trade activities in the neighbouring territory but also positively influenced the entire economic activities in Assam.
Decline of the Ahom dynasty in Assam
The end of the Ahom dynasty
The Ahom Kingdom lost its legacy with several Burmese
invasions and the emergence of the Moamoria rebellion in Assam. The year 1826
marked the end of the era of the Ahom dynasty with the “Treaty of Yandabo”.
Bearing the legacy of the Ahom dynasty in the present-day Assam
The influence of the Ahom dynasty in Assam
Even after the end of the Ahom dynasty, the historic
relevance and principles have continuously inspired the people belongs to
Assam. The dynasty has made a significant contribution to the social cohesion,
art and language that have become integral parts of modern Assam.
In modern Assam, the symbol of this dynasty, such as LachitBorphukan, a national icon is holds the significance of heroism and patriotism and the deep connection to the golden past of Assam.
Final words
The Ahom dynasty is beyond a ruling power due to its
civilizational system that has shaped the cultural and spiritual tragically of
Assam. The legacy of this dynasty is celebrated today in Assam which reflects
an enriched cultural tradition, innovation and inclusivity.