People across Assam on Tuesday paid tribute to the founder of the Ahom kingdom, Chaolung Sukapha, on the occasion of Asom Divas. A central celebration of Asom Divas was organised in Nazira, Charaideo district led by the Department of Cultural Affairs and the Tai Ahom Development Council, with support from the Sivasagar district administration and AASU Nazira Committee. The day-long programme saw the participation of several ministers, MLAs and dignitaries. Before the main event at the Nazira Sports Association playground, a 20-foot statue of Chaolung Sukapha was unveiled in Nazira.
The statue, funded by the Tai Ahom Development Council, was inaugurated by Assam’s Water Resources Minister Pijush Hazarika. Cultural Affairs Minister Bimal Borah, Public Works and Hills Area Development Minister Jogen Mohan, were also present at the ceremony along with other dignitaries. Notably, Chaolung Sukapha is remembered as a ruler who brought people of all castes, tribes and faiths together to build a “Bor Asom” (Greater Assam). In 1228, Sukapha crossed the Patkai Hills and went on to establish the Ahom kingdom, which ruled for nearly 600 years and laid the foundation of a unified and strong Assam. His contribution to Assam’s history is recognised even today, and many of the monuments built during the Ahom era still remain intact. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his wishes to the people of Assam on the occasion of Asom Diwas. “Today is an occasion to reiterate our commitment to fulfilling the vision of Swargadeo Chaolung Sukapha. Over the last few years, the NDA Governments in the Centre and Assam are working tirelessly to boost the progress of Assam. Remarkable strides have been made in enhancing physical and social infrastructure. Numerous steps are being taken towards popularising the Tai-Ahom culture and Tai language. This will greatly benefit the youth of Assam,” the Prime Minister stated.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, in a social media post, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to work for the welfare of the community and build a Bor Asom as envisaged by Swargadeo. “Our government has consistently worked towards boosting growth of Tai Ahom community and developing infrastructure in the region. Today, as we honour Swargadeo Chaolung Sukapha, we reaffirm our commitment to work for the welfare of the community and build a Bor Asom as envisaged by Swargadeo,” the Chief Minister stated.