Which Ahom king is credited with the defeat of the Mughals in the Battle of Saraighat?

Which Ahom king is credited with the defeat of the Mughals in the Battle of Saraighat?

The Ahom king credited with the defeat of the Mughals in the Battle of Saraighat was Lachit Borphukan. He played a pivotal role in defending the Ahom kingdom against the Mughal Empire's invasion under the leadership of General Mir Jumla in the 17th century. Lachit Borphukan's strategic acumen, military prowess, and unwavering determination earned him a prominent place in Assamese history as a legendary hero.

Lachit Borphukan was born in 1622 CE in Guwahati, Assam, into the prestigious Borphukan family, which held significant administrative and military positions in the Ahom kingdom. He received a comprehensive education that included military training, strategy, and leadership skills from an early age. Lachit Borphukan's upbringing prepared him to face the challenges that lay ahead.

In 1667 CE, the Mughals, under the command of General Mir Jumla, launched an invasion to annex the Ahom kingdom. The Mughals had already captured Guwahati and were advancing further into Assam. The Ahom kingdom, led by King Chakradhwaj Singha, entrusted Lachit Borphukan with the responsibility of defending the kingdom against the Mughal forces.

Lachit Borphukan swiftly organized the Ahom army and implemented strategic measures to counter the Mughal invasion. He strengthened the defenses of strategic locations, constructed fortifications, and set up strongholds along the Brahmaputra River, which played a crucial role in the impending battle.

The Battle of Saraighat, fought in 1671 CE, was a significant turning point in the conflict between the Ahoms and the Mughals. The Mughals, equipped with a superior and well-equipped army, sought to capture the vital river port of Saraighat. Lachit Borphukan understood the strategic importance of the river and its proximity to Guwahati, and he planned a formidable defense.

Lachit Borphukan led the Ahom forces with exceptional valor and tactical brilliance during the Battle of Saraighat. His leadership inspired his soldiers to fight fiercely and relentlessly. Despite being outnumbered and facing superior weaponry, the Ahoms exhibited indomitable courage and resilience under Lachit Borphukan's command.

During the intense battle, Lachit Borphukan devised a brilliant strategy to counter the Mughal navy. He ordered the construction of a makeshift barrier known as "bamboo fences" or "chain-link fences" across the river to impede the Mughal warships' progress. This innovative tactic disrupted the Mughal fleet's movement and rendered their heavy artillery ineffective.

Lachit Borphukan's leadership and his strategic genius became legendary during the Battle of Saraighat. He personally led his troops from the frontlines, inspiring them to fight valiantly. Lachit Borphukan's memorable words, "মোমাই সুতিয়া দিয়া গল মাচিল" (Give me a million soldiers, I shall not retreat), still resonate as a testament to his unwavering determination and commitment to defending his homeland.

The Ahom forces, led by Lachit Borphukan, inflicted heavy casualties on the Mughal army and shattered their hopes of conquering Assam. The Mughal retreat from the Battle of Saraighat marked a decisive victory for the Ahoms and halted the Mughal Empire's expansion into Assam.

Lachit Borphukan's exceptional leadership and military achievements in the Battle of Saraighat earned him reverence and respect among the Ahom people. His unwavering loyalty to the Ahom kingdom and his strategic brilliance in the face of adversity made him an iconic figure in Assamese history.

However, Lachit Borphukan's triumphs were not limited to the Battle of Saraighat alone. He continued to defend the Ahom kingdom against subsequent Mughal incursions, securing its borders and preserving its sovereignty. His military campaigns against the Mughals were instrumental in ensuring the survival and independence of the Ahom kingdom.

Tragically, Lachit Borphukan's illustrious life was cut short. He succumbed to illness in 1672 CE, just a year after the Battle of Saraighat. Nonetheless, his legacy as a valiant warrior and an emblem of Assamese pride endures.

Lachit Borphukan's heroic exploits in the Battle of Saraighat remain an indelible part of Assam's history and cultural identity. He symbolizes the spirit of resilience, bravery, and patriotism in the face of adversity. His legacy serves as an inspiration for generations to come, embodying the indomitable spirit of Assam and its people.

 

 

The Ahom king credited with the defeat of the Mughals in the Battle of Saraighat was:

• Lachit Borphukan.

Key points:

• Lachit Borphukan was born in 1622 CE in Guwahati, Assam.
• In 1667 CE, the Mughals, under General Mir Jumla, launched an invasion to annex the Ahom kingdom.
• King Chakradhwaj Singha entrusted Lachit Borphukan with the responsibility of defending the kingdom.
• Lachit Borphukan organized the Ahom army and fortified strategic locations.
• The Battle of Saraighat took place in 1671 CE.
• Lachit Borphukan led the Ahom forces with valor and tactical brilliance.
• He constructed bamboo fences or chain-link fences across the Brahmaputra River to hinder the Mughal warships.
• Lachit Borphukan personally led the troops from the frontlines, inspiring them to fight courageously.
• The Ahom forces inflicted heavy casualties on the Mughal army, forcing their retreat.
• The Battle of Saraighat marked a decisive victory for the Ahoms against the Mughals.
• Lachit Borphukan's leadership and military achievements made him an iconic figure in Assamese history.
• He continued to defend the Ahom kingdom against subsequent Mughal incursions.
• Lachit Borphukan passed away in 1672 CE, a year after the Battle of Saraighat.
• His legacy as a valiant warrior and symbol of Assamese pride endures to this day.

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