Assam’s Charaideo Maidam Earns Spot on UNESCO World Heritage List
Assam‘s Charaideo Maidam Earns Spot on UNESCO World Heritage List
Unveiling the Historical Significance and Cultural Richness of Assam’s First World Heritage Site
The Charaideo Maidam, a monumental burial site in eastern Assam, has been honored with a place on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list under the category of cultural property.
This remarkable inclusion marks a historic first for the northeastern region of India, and the Charaideo Maidam now stands as the 43rd World Heritage Site from India.
Similar in cultural significance to the pyramids of Egypt, the maidams are earthen burial mounds that enshrine the mortal remains of Ahom royalty. The Ahoms ruled Assam for an impressive span of 600 years before the British annexation. The Charaideo Maidam exemplifies the deep spiritual beliefs, civilizational heritage, and architectural genius of Assam’s Tai-Ahom community.
The recognition of Charaideo Maidam is not just a win for Assam but a matter of national pride. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the nomination of the Charaideo Maidam at the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee, making it India’s sole nomination in the cultural category for this year.
In March, Vishal V. Sharma, the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of India to UNESCO, visited the necropolis at Charaideo. Of the 386 maidams explored thus far, 90 royal burials at Charaideo are considered the best-preserved and most representative examples of this ancient tradition. These earthen mounds not only contain the remains of Ahom rulers but also their personal belongings, making them invaluable repositories of history and culture.
Historically, the Ahoms practiced cremation, and from the 18th century onwards, they began to entomb the cremated bones and ashes in maidams at Charaideo. This shift in burial practices stands as a testament to the evolving religious and cultural dynamics of the Ahom dynasty over centuries.
The Charaideo Maidams are highly venerated and have turned the Charaideo district into a burgeoning tourist destination. The district is now poised to attract global attention, encouraging both local and international tourists to delve into its rich historical and cultural tapestry.
To further celebrate this achievement, an exhibition in New Delhi commemorated the 400th birth anniversary of Ahom General Lachit Borphukan. The exhibition featured a model of the maidams, offering visitors a glimpse into the architectural and cultural significance of these ancient burial mounds.
Assam, already home to two other UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the natural category—Kaziranga National Park and Manas National Park, both of which are also tiger reserves—now adds a significant cultural site to its list of global treasures. This achievement underscores the diverse and rich heritage of the state, encouraging further exploration and study of its historical landmarks.
The inclusion of the Charaideo Maidam in the UNESCO World Heritage list is a monumental achievement for Assam and India as a whole. It not only brings global recognition to the historical and cultural richness of the region but also paves the way for increased tourism and academic interest.
As the world turns its eyes to Charaideo, the maidams stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Ahom dynasty, inviting all to explore and appreciate this extraordinary chapter of Indian history.
26-07-2024
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