Lachit Borphukan, also known as Lachit Borphukan, was a brave and skilled military commander of the Ahom kingdom in Assam, India. He is considered a hero and a symbol of the resistance against foreign invasions.
Lachit was born in 1622 in a family of military leaders in the Charingia Borgohain clan. His father Momai Tamuli Borbarua was the Commander-in-Chief of the Ahom army during the reign of King Pratap Singha. Lachit grew up in a military environment and was trained in various combat skills from a young age. He became an expert in the use of weapons such as the sword, spear, and bow.
Lachit's military career began when he was appointed the Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Ahom army under his uncle, the Borbarua (Commander-in-Chief). He played an important role in the Ahom victory against the Mughals in the Battle of Saraighat in 1671. The Mughals, led by Mir Jumla II, had invaded Assam and captured the Ahom capital of Garhgaon. Lachit, along with his uncle, led the Ahom army in a counter-attack and defeated the Mughals.
Lachit's leadership and military tactics were instrumental in the Ahom victory. He devised a strategy of using small boats to attack the larger Mughal ships, which were not able to navigate in the shallow waters of the Brahmaputra river. He also organized the defense of the Ahom fortifications, which were attacked by the Mughals from different directions. Lachit's bravery and determination inspired the Ahom soldiers, who fought with great courage and defeated the Mughals.
After the Battle of Saraighat, Lachit became the Commander-in-Chief of the Ahom army. He continued to lead the Ahom forces in various battles against the Burmese and other neighboring kingdoms. He also reorganized the Ahom army and introduced new weapons and tactics. Lachit was known for his discipline, honesty, and dedication to his duties.
Lachit's military achievements and leadership have been celebrated in Assam and other parts of India. He is remembered as a hero who defended the freedom and sovereignty of his kingdom against foreign invasions. His famous words "Buruwa, Sukaphaa koi aase" ("The Burmese, Sukaphaa are coming") are still quoted as a symbol of vigilance and preparedness.
Lachit died in 1672, a year after the Battle of Saraighat. He was only 50 years old at the time of his death. His legacy lives on, and he is still revered as a symbol of Assamese pride and valor. In his honor, the Lachit Divas (Lachit Day) is celebrated every year on 24th November in Assam.
