CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Praises Assam’s Legacy of Resistance as an “Eternal Saga of Heroism”

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently commemorated the state’s long-standing legacy of resisting foreign invasions, calling it an “eternal saga of heroism.” Through a post on his official X handle, he highlighted Assam’s rulers and warriors’ valor, emphasizing their repeated successes in defending the region even as much of India fell under successive dynasties. Sarma specifically referenced Maharaja Prithu of Kamrup, who in 1206 CE decisively defeated Bakhtiyar Khilji’s army during his Tibet expedition, underscoring that Assam’s resistance did not end there but continued for centuries.

Tracing Assam’s history, Sarma outlined several landmark battles that demonstrated the state’s resilience. In 1257 CE, King Sandhya, with the assistance of the Chutia ruler, ambushed and destroyed Tughril Khan’s forces during the monsoon season. In 1337 CE, King Durlabh Narayan defeated Sultan Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s vast cavalry, reinforcing Assam’s reputation as a formidable power. The Ahom rulers Suhungmung and Suklenmung, in 1532 CE, overcame Turbak and Hussain Khan, killing Turbak and executing Hussain, further exemplifying strategic defense and valor.

During 1637–1639 CE, Mughal generals Mir Zainuddin and Allah Yar Khan faced defeats at Gauhati, reflecting Assam’s capacity to withstand imperial ambitions. Between 1661 and 1663 CE, Mir Jumla briefly occupied Gargaon but was forced to retreat due to floods, famine, and persistent local resistance. From 1668 to 1671 CE, Lachit Barphukan’s legendary defense of Guwahati ensured Mughal defeat on the Brahmaputra, highlighting both tactical brilliance and indomitable spirit. The decisive Battle of Itakhuli in 1682, led by Chetia Barphukan and Dihingia Alun Barbaruah, ultimately drove the Mughals beyond the Manas River, ending their ambitions in Assam and marking a symbolic victory for the region.

Sarma emphasized that between 1205 and 1682 CE, Assam faced eighteen major invasions yet “stood like a wall against one invader after another.” Despite the broader subcontinent coming under foreign domination, Assam preserved its sovereignty through unity, strategic foresight, and the collective courage of its rulers, military commanders, and soldiers. He described this history as one of “resistance, sacrifice, and unyielding spirit,” highlighting the importance of remembering and honoring those who safeguarded the state’s independence.

Beyond recounting military achievements, Sarma linked Assam’s history of defiance to broader lessons of patriotism, resilience, and community solidarity. He underlined that the region’s ability to resist repeated invasions was not merely a product of individual valor but of collective organization, strategic governance, and the sustained morale of both the army and civilian population. This historical continuity, he argued, forms a vital part of Assam’s identity, reflecting enduring principles of courage, resistance, and the safeguarding of freedom against external threats.

Sarma concluded by urging citizens to honor the contributions of Assam’s historical figures—from kings and military commanders to common soldiers—whose sacrifices ensured the preservation of the state’s sovereignty and cultural heritage. By reflecting on centuries of resistance, he called upon the people of Assam to draw inspiration from their ancestors’ resilience, embodying the same unyielding spirit in contemporary challenges. This recognition of Assam’s historical legacy aims not only to preserve collective memory but also to reinforce values of unity, patriotism, and courage that continue to shape the state’s identity today.