The Battle of Saraighat, fought in 1671, is one of the most significant naval battles in the history of India. It took place on the Brahmaputra River near Saraighat, close to modern-day Guwahati, Assam. The battle was fought between the Mughal Empire, led by the Kachwaha Rajput general Raja Ram Singh I. Andthe Ahom Kingdom, led by the legendary general Lachit Borphukan. This battle marked the culmination of the long-standing conflict between the Mughals. And the Ahoms for control over Assam and the strategic region of Guwahati.
Background
The Mughals had made several attempts to capture Assam and gain control over the Brahmaputra Valley. Which was vital for trade and territorial expansion. Prior to the Battle of Saraighat, they had temporarily succeeded in occupying Guwahati. But the Ahoms launched a fierce resistance to reclaim their territory.
Lachit Borphukan, the Ahom commander, had earlier been appointed by Swargadeo Chakradhwaj Singha, the Ahom king, to lead the defense against the Mughals. Lachit was known for his brilliant military strategies, especially in guerrilla warfare and naval combat, which were crucial in defending Assam from the larger and better-equipped Mughal forces.
The Battle of Saraighat
The Mughal forces under Ram Singh I consisted of a vast army, including a large cavalry and infantry, along with a powerful naval fleet. They sought to encircle and defeat the Ahoms by launching attacks from both land and river, aiming to crush the Ahom resistance and re-establish Mughal authority over the Brahmaputra region.
Despite being heavily outnumber, the Ahoms had one significant advantage: their superior knowledge of the riverine geography of the Brahmaputra. Lachit Borphukan made strategic use of small, fast-moving boats to conduct raids on the larger Mughal ships, using guerrilla tactics that frustrated the Mughal forces.
One of the most famous episodes of the battle occurred when Lachit, though severely ill. Perrsonally led his troops into battle to defend the strategic location of Saraighat. His leadership and determination rallied the Ahom soldiers to deliver a decisive blow to the Mughal forces.
Outcome
The Ahoms managed to rout the Mughals through their effective naval tactics and their tenacity on the battlefield. The Mughals were force to retreated beyond the Manas River, and Guwahati remained in Ahom hands.
The Battle of Saraighat marked the end of Mughal ambitions in Assam. Despite their superior numbers and resources, the Mughal forces could not penetrate further into the Ahom territory after this defeat.
Lachit Borphukan emerged as a national hero in Assam, and his leadership is celebrate to this day. The battle became a symbol of Assamese resistance and independence against external powers.
Legacy
Lachit Divas is celebrated annually on 24th November in Assam to commemorate the heroism of Lachit Borphukan.
The Ahom victory at Saraighat was a turning point in the history of Assam. Preserving the kingdom’s sovereignty for several more decades, until the decline of the Ahom dynasty in the early 19th century.
The battle is one of the greatest examples of Indian history. And showcases the significance of local knowledge, strategy, and leadership in overcoming larger and more powerful forces.
This battle is a defining chapter in the history of Assam, symbolizing the state’s resilience and the military genius of Lachit Borphukan.
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