The Union
Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, paid
homage to Lachit Borphukan, the legendary Ahom military commander, on his 402nd
birth anniversary yesterday in New Delhi. The remembrance, organized by the Ministry of
Ports, Shipping & Waterways, honored the invincible bravery and patriotism
of Borphukan, who famously led the Assamese forces to victory against the
Mughals in the historic Battle of Saraighat in 1671.
Addressing
the crowd, Shri Sonowal highlighted Borphukan’s long-lasting influence on
India’s youth and the nation-building process. “Lachit Borphukan's story of
bravery, strategic brilliance, and uncompromising love for his motherland
continues to motivate generations. His leadership during the Battle of
Saraighat not only defended Assam’s existence but also set the stage for the fall
of Mughal regime in India,” he said.
Shri Sonowal
hailed the Prime Minister’s vision for a strong and self-reliant India, drawing
similarities between Lachit Borphukan’s legacy and PM Narendra Modi’s
determination to defend the nation’s sovereignty. “Inspired by Lachit
Borphukan’s Nation First principle, we are seeking to build an Atmanirbhar
Bharat, honoring the same courage and devotion he displayed,” Shri Sonowal
added.
The
highlight of the occasion was the homage to Borphukan’s naval prowess during
the Battle of Saraighat, remembered as one of the greatest riverine battles in
world history. Shri Sanjeev Sanyal, Member of the Prime Minister's Economic
Advisory Council, elaborated on the importance of the Ahom general’s military
strategies. “Lachit Borphukan is India’s greatest admiral, who defeated the
Mughals by utilizing a nimble Ahom navy against their heavily armed ships. This
decisive victory marked the beginning of the Mughal Empire’s downfall,” he
noted.
Shri Sanyal
also stressed the significance of honoring India’s maritime heritage and called
for the reconstruction of historic naval vessels from the Gupta, Maratha, and
Ahom eras to enlighten coming generations about India’s naval power.
The occasion
began with floral tributes to Lachit Borphukan, with cadets from the Maritime
Institute and the Central Band adding a ceremonial touch. The celebration
highlighted Borphukan’s role in defending India’s sovereignty and his
contribution to the nation’s maritime legacy.
Shri Sonowal
announced initiatives to harness the potential of inland waterways, inspired by
Borphukan’s strategic use of the Brahmaputra River during the battle. “Under
his vision, we are committed to bolstering the country’s waterways and
empowering Assam and the Northeast,” he said.
The 402nd
Lachit Diwas ended with a call to honor India’s unsung heroes and to draw
inspiration from their sacrifices. “Lachit Borphukan’s patriotism and courage
acts as a beacon for all Indians. His legacy reminds us to defend the pride and
sovereignty of our nation,” Shri Sonowal asserted.
As part of
the ongoing measures to restore India’s maritime legacy, Shri Sanyal suggested
the reconstruction of historic boats from the Maratha and Ahom eras. “These
replicas will not only enlighten us about India’s dominance on water but also
celebrate our victories against formidable enemies,” he said.
The
occasion, attended by dignitaries, historians, and maritime experts, restated
the significance of Lachit Borphukan’s contributions in shaping India’s history
and maintaining its cultural and maritime legacy. (PR)