Govind Tekale
Lachit Barphukan is the iconic military general of Assam. He won a resounding victory against the invading Mughal army. He halted an alien imperialist regime from ruling this Far Eastern part of our great nation. His victory over the Mughals in the battle of Saraighat in 1671, in the face of overwhelming odds, is a landmark event. It is even more remarkable when we consider that Lachit Barphukan was quite ill during the battle.
At a time when large parts of our country were under the yoke of the Mughals, the bravery of Lachit Barphukan ensured that Assam was able to resist the imperialist designs of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Barphukan’s unflagging determination ensured that Ahom (Assamese) civilization and culture remained intact. His patriotism and love for his motherland are shining examples for all Indians, particularly the younger generation.
The year 2022 marks the 350th death anniversary of the great General. As part of efforts to commemorate the life of the legendary hero, a book by Arup Kumar Dutta entitled “Assam’s Braveheart – Lachit Barphukan” was published Saturday. The book’s translation into 23 languages was a landmark in the publishing world. The function to launch the book was held at 4:30 pm at Srikanta Sankaradeva International Auditorium, Guwahati.
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When the book is being replaced by Kindle, this innovative initiative of Assam is a welcome step. The Directorate of Information & Public Relations of the State deserves accolades for bringing out an elegant biography of the great General of Assam.
The Prime Minister Narendra Modi has rightly said: “Lachit Barphukan is India’s pride. We all get inspired by his bravery against the Mughals. He was an outstanding leader and strategist, who played a pivotal role in protecting the unique culture of Assam.” This event can actually be listed for a Guinness Record.
The hard-bound volume is priced at a modest price of less than 500 Rs. This riveting tale of cultural resilience & political brilliance that saved Northeast India from Mughal subjugation deserves to be read by every Indian who wants to know about our struggle for freedom.
A similar book on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s 350th coronation anniversary commencement in all the languages listed in the eighth schedule of our constitution can be published in June this year.
