Assam’s BJP government is pushing hard to spread the account of Lachit Borphukan – the famous general of the Ahom dynasty (1228-1826) – who fought and defeated the Mughals in the famous battle of Saraighat near Guwahati in 1671, in line with Chhatrapati Shivaji’s story of valor and victory.
“The aggressive Mughals could not defeat only two heroes in India—Shivaji and Lachit Borpukan. Shivaji’s bravery and fighting skills are world-renowned, but unfortunately, Lachit Borphukan, who also defeated the Mughals, has yet to receive the respect he deserves. The state government has now taken elaborate measures to establish Borphukan’s story at the national level,” said Assam Information Minister Pijush Hazarika.
Hazarika is one of the ministers overseeing the arrangements for Borphukan’s 400th birth anniversary celebrations in New Delhi. The year-long celebration was started in Guwahati this year in February by then-President Ram Nath Kovind. According to sources, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah are among the dignitaries expected to attend Lachit Borphukan’s 400th birth anniversary celebrations.