While a lot is known about the valor of Shivaji, Lakshmi Bai and Bajirao, not much is known about the Ahoms and their spirited resistance to the Mughals. The Mughal Army attacked the Ahom Kingdom in the Battle of Itakhuli in 1682 that saw a decisive Ahom victory and resulted in the Mughal retreat. While we remember the valour of others, there are some who get left out. Lachit Borphukan is one such legend who did not find his rightful place in our history texts. 24 November is celebrated each year as Lachit Divas in Assam where they commemorate the heroism of Lachit Borphukan.

The valiant Ahoms had successfully repulsed frequent attacks on their homeland from the time of Muhammad Ghori on no less than seventeen invasions.

Born to Momai Tamuli Borborua, the first Borborua (Governor of upper Assam and Commander-in-Chief of the Ahom army) under Prataap Singha, Lachit Borphukan was educated in humanities, scriptures, and military skills.

Source: Hinduhumanrights

He was the Commander-In-Chief in the battle of Saraighat. The king presented Lachit with a gold-hafted sword (Hengdang) to carry out the task of defeating the Mughals.

The Mughals, even if they were well equipped, failed to make any advances towards the Ahom army in the first phase of the war. Lachit was offered a bribe of one lakh rupees to abandon Guwahati defenses. He refused to surrender.

Source: wikimedia