The Untold Story of the Battle of Saraighat: Ahom vs. Mughal, the Final Battle

 The Untold Story of the Battle of Saraighat: Ahom vs. Mughal, the Final Battle

The Battle of Saraighat is considered a turning point in Indian history that proved the courage and resolve of the Assamese people against the expansionist ambitions of the Mughal Empire. This ancient battle took place in the 17th century on the banks of the Brahmaputra in northeast India. The Ahom kingdom under the leadership of the legendary Lachit Borphukan successfully resisted the mighty Mughal army by maintaining the autonomy of Assam. The significance of the battle transcends time and symbolizes the resistance of the indigenous people and the triumph of courage over adversity.

             In this article, we discussed the causes, significance and consequences of the Battle of Saraighat.

Events of the Battle of Saraighat

In the Battle of Saraighat in 1671, the Ahom Kingdom displayed a series of strategically brilliant and courageous techniques against the might of the Mughal Empire. The Ahom general Lachit Borphukan fortified the narrow channels and sandy banks of the Brahmaputra in anticipation of the Mughal invasion (led by Raja Ram Singh). The war began with a fierce naval battle in which smaller, more maneuverable Ahom boats launched surprise attacks on the large Mughal warships. Under the cover of darkness, the Ahoms launched several night attacks, setting fire to the Mughal ships and causing considerable confusion. Lachit Borphukan's presence at the front despite his serious illness spurred his army to unprecedented courage. His leadership skills and strategic acumen helped outwit the Mughals. As the war intensified, they were cut off from Mughal control by the relentless attacks of the Ahoms and eventually forced to retreat

What are the Reasons for the Battle of Saraighat?

The Battle of Saraighat, a major conflict between the Mughal Empire and the Ahom Kingdom in 1671, was triggered by several major factors:

1. Mughal expansionism: Emperor Aurangzeb's desire to extend Mughal rule prompted him to order the annexation of Assam, as it was of strategic importance to the northeastern region of the Indian subcontinent.

2. Ahom resistance: The Ahom kingdom, led by rulers like Chakradhwaj Singha and Lachit Borphukan, resisted the Mughal invasion and tried to defend its sovereignty and territory.

3. Territorial disputes: The border regions of the Mughal Empire and the Ahom Kingdom were often disputed, leading to tensions and clashes over the control of strategic territories. 

4. Geopolitical significance: Assam's location on the banks of the Brahmaputra River made it an important area for trade and military penetration. Control over Assam would have given the Mughals a strategic advantage in their expansionist ambitions.

5. Cultural and religious differences: The mainly Muslim Mughals wanted to extend their influence to Hindu-dominated Assam. These cultural and religious differences contributed to the enmity between the two powers.

6. Earlier conflicts: Earlier conflicts and diplomatic negotiations such as the Treaty of Asura Ali could not completely resolve the tensions between the Mughals and the Ahoms and laid the foundation for future hostilities.

What is the Significance of the Battle of Saraighat?

The Battle of Saraighat is of immense significance to the history of India for several reasons:

a. The victory of Ahom: The Ahom victory at Saraighat thwarted the Mughal Empire's attempts to annex Assam, thus preserving the sovereignty and independence of the Ahom kingdom. This victory ensured that Assam was no longer directly controlled by the Mughals.

b. Symbol of resistance: This battle is a symbol of the indomitable spirit and resilience of the Ahom people against external attacks. It underscores their determination to defend their homeland and cultural identity against overwhelming odds.

c. Strategic importance: Saraighat showed the strategic importance of the Brahmaputra River and its surrounding territory for the outcome of the military conflict. The Ahom forces demonstrated the importance of strategic planning and strategy in warfare and effectively used the natural geography to their advantage.

d. Lachit Borphukan's legacy: Lachit Borphukan's leadership and heroism during the Battle of Saraighat have immortalized him as a legendary figure in Assam's history. His strategic brilliance and unwavering commitment to the defense of Assam against the Mughals have inspired generations.

e. Cultural identity: The conquest of Saraighat is deeply rooted in the cultural identity of Assam and the entire north-eastern region of India. It is celebrated every year as a symbol of pride and unity, highlighting the rich heritage and traditions of the region.

f. Influence on later history: The Ahom victory at Saraighat not only stopped the Mughal expansion into Assam but also influenced the geopolitical environment of the region. It helped preserve the indigenous culture and traditions of Assam and shaped the historical development of the region in the centuries to come.

 The Untold Story of the Battle of Saraighat: Ahom vs. Mughal, the Final Battle

What were the Consequences of the Battle of Saraighat?

The Battle of Saraighat between the Ahom Kingdom and the Mughal Empire in 1671 had profound consequences that shaped the course of history on the Indian subcontinent:

• Independence: The most immediate consequence of the Battle of Saraighat was the independence of the Ahoms. The Ahom conquest thwarted the Mughals' attempt to annex Assam and ensured that the region remained under native rule.

• Mughal expansion in Northeast India: The defeat at Saraighat ended the Mughals' ambitions to expand their empire into northeast India. The conquest of Ahom served as a deterrent against further Mughal invasions in Assam and neighboring areas.

• The prestige and influence of the Ahom increased: The Ahom victory at Saraighat increased the prestige and influence of the Ahom kingdom in the region. It cemented their reputation as excellent defenders of their homeland and strengthened their diplomatic and military standing with neighboring states.

• The legacy of Lachit Borphukan: The leadership qualities and bravery displayed by Lachit Borphukan during the Battle of Saraighat have made his legacy a legendary figure in the history of Assam. He became a symbol of resistance and patriotism and inspired future generations with his courage and strategic acumen.

• Cultural resilience: The Battle of Saraighat strengthened the cultural resilience of the Assamese people. It strengthened their sense of identity and unity and fostered collective pride in their heritage and traditions in the face of external threats.

• Geopolitical dynamics: The outcome of the Battle of Saraighat had far-reaching geopolitical implications and influenced the balance of power in the northeastern region of India. It contributed to the formation of alliances and rivalries between neighboring states that shaped the political landscape in the years to come.

What is the Famous Saying of Lachit Borphukan?

After this incident, Lachit cut off his uncle's head with a sword and declared: "My uncle is worth no more than my own country"," thus consolidating his revered status in Assam's history.

Who was the king during Lachit Borphukan?

The king at the time of Lachit Borphukan was King Chakradhwaj Singha. 

FAQs:

1. Who won the battle of Saraighat?

The Battle of Saraighat was won by the Kingdom of Ahom under the leadership of Lachit Borphukan against the Mughal Empire.

2. What was the last battle between the Ahom and the Mughals?

The Battle of Saraighat in 1671 is widely regarded as the last major conflict between the Ahom Kingdom and the Mughal Empire.

3. Who moved the Ahom capital to Jorhat?

Gauri Nath Singha took Jorhat as the last capital of the Ahom kingdom during the 18th century

4. Which award is named after Lachit Borphukan?

The best cadets of the National Defense Academy are awarded the Lachit Borphukan Gold Medal.