On Lachit Diwas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered Lachit Borphukan as an enduring symbol of courage, patriotism and leadership, noting his decisive role in protecting Assam’s culture and unity. The Prime Minister’s messages, posted on X, reinforced the national significance of Lachit’s legacy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked Lachit Diwas by paying tribute to Lachit Borphukan, the celebrated 17th-century Ahom general known for his leadership during the Battle of Saraighat. In an official post on X, the Prime Minister described Lachit as “a symbol of courage, patriotism and true leadership” whose bravery continues to inspire generations across India.
Modi highlighted Lachit Borphukan’s role in “safeguarding the exemplary culture of Assam” and underlined how his example upholds values of unity and resilience that remain relevant today.
Words in Assamese and English
In a separate post in Assamese, the Prime Minister wrote:”On Lachit Day, we remember the symbol of bravery, patriotism, and true leadership, Lachit Borphukan. His valor continues to inspire every generation. He played a significant role in protecting Assam’s unique culture.”
The bilingual tribute underscores the cultural sensitivity of the commemoration and connects national remembrance with regional identity in Assam.
Why Lachit Diwas matters
Lachit Diwas is observed annually to honour Lachit Borphukan, the Ahom commander who led Assamese forces to victory against invading Mughal armies in 1671. The day is a focal point for remembrance ceremonies in Assam and among communities that revere his leadership and sacrifice. Activities typically include wreath-laying, cultural programmes and public discourse on regional history.
For many in Assam, Lachit remains not just a military hero but a guardian of local traditions and autonomy attributes the Prime Minister emphasised in his messages.
Public and official reactions
The Prime Minister’s tributes were echoed across state government channels, cultural organisations and civil society. Assam’s administration and local institutions marked the day with official ceremonies, flag-hoisting and events highlighting Lachit’s legacy in schools and public forums.
Historians and cultural commentators noted that contemporary commemoration of Lachit also sparks conversations about preserving Assam’s language, arts and historical memory in a rapidly changing socio-economic environment.
Legacy of leadership and resilience
Lachit Borphukan’s enduring legacy rests on a blend of military acumen and administrative foresight. His leadership during the naval engagements on the Brahmaputra demonstrated strategic ingenuity and mobilised local resources effectively. Scholars argue that his model of leadership rooted in duty, sacrifice and local mobilisation offers lessons for civic responsibility today.
Commemorations across Assam
On Lachit Diwas, educational institutions hold special assemblies, while cultural troupes perform Bihu and other Assamese art forms to celebrate their regional heritage. Memorials at Sivasagar and on the Brahmaputra’s banks draw citizens and officials who pay homage and reaffirm commitments to local culture and unity.
Context and continuity
Commemorations such as Lachit Diwas serve a dual purpose: they honour a historical figure and act as a vehicle for contemporary civic education. By invoking Lachit’s example, leaders aim to reinforce values of bravery, communal harmony and stewardship of regional identity.
Experts caution that remembrance should be accompanied by efforts to preserve archival records, promote local history in curricula and support institutions that keep Assamese language and culture vibrant.
Further reading and sources
This report is based on the Prime Minister’s posts issued on Lachit Diwas and the related Press Information Bureau release. For official statements and background on commemorations, see the Press Information Bureau and the Government of Assam websites.