How did the Ahoms defeat the Mughals?

Introduction

• Ahom Kingdom: Lasted from 1615 to 1682, with no Mughal victory.
• Mughal Invasion: Attempts were made to conquer Assam.

Background of the Ahoms

• In the 13th century, Ahoms came from Myanmar to the Brahmaputra Valley.
• Strength increased by defeating local kingdoms.
• Battles began with Afghan and Turkish rulers.

Reasons for the Conflict between Mughals and Ahoms

• Mughal Invasion: Attempt to expand the Mughal Empire.
• Political Dominance: Wanted to establish their preferred ruler in Assam.

Major Battles

First Attack (Battle of Samdhara)

• Year: 1616
• Reason: Illegal Mughal trader Ratan Singh.
• Outcome: Defeat of Mughals by Ahoms and retreat.

Second Attack

• Year: 1636
• Outcome: Initially won by Mughals, but Ahoms retaliated in 1638.
• Conflict: Treaty of Asurar, signed in 1639.

Third Attack

• Mughal Commander: Mir Jumla
• Strategy: Ahoms' retaliation forced Mughals into a peace treaty.

Fourth Major Attack

• Year: 1665
• Mughal Army: A large army sent under the leadership of Ram Singh.
• Strategy: Lachit Borphukan's guerrilla warfare, Mughals defeated in the Brahmaputra River.
• Battle of Saraighat: Victory of Ahoms in 1671.

In the end

• Battle of Itakhuli: Final victory of Ahoms in 1682.
• Ahom Kingdom: Continued until 1826.

Conclusion

• Legacy: The Battle of Saraighat is proudly remembered in Assam even today.

• Inspiration: The bravery of the Ahoms inspires many generations.

• Honor: The best cadet in NDA is honored with the Lachit Borphukan Gold Medal.

This lecture illustrates that great chapter of Indian history which often remains suppressed in mainstream history.