Charaideo: In a historic achievement for the Northeast, the Charaideo Maidam has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, marking the region’s first cultural site to receive this global honour. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, visited the site to celebrate this remarkable milestone and acknowledged the architectural and cultural brilliance of the Ahom dynasty.
Union Minister Sonowal said, “Charaideo Maidam stands as a remarkable testament to the architectural brilliance of the Ahom era, embodying the legacy of our revered ancestors. This achievement was made possible through the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Dangoria, whose efforts brought global recognition to this heritage. May the timeless ideals of the Ahom rulers continue to guide us in building a culturally vibrant Assam.”
He further added, “This recognition brings the bravery, valour, and indomitable spirit of the Ahom dynasty to the global stage. On behalf of Assam, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for his pivotal role in achieving this honour. I invite global travellers to witness the Charaideo Maidam, an epitome of cultural brilliance, and experience the kaleidoscopic Assamese society crafted through 600 years of Ahom governance.”
Charaideo Maidams: A Historical Legacy
Known as the “Pyramids of Assam,” the Charaideo Maidams are an enduring symbol of the Ahom dynasty’s rich history. Established in the 13th century by Swargadeo Chaolung Sukapha, the dynasty united various communities under the policy of “Saat Raj Saamari Ek Raj” (seven kingdoms into one), laying the foundation for greater Assam.
Steps Leading to UNESCO Recognition
The recognition of Charaideo Maidam as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a result of meticulous planning and leadership:
2020: Sonowal, during the “Me-Dam-Me-Phi” celebrations, urged PM Modi to elevate Charaideo’s status to international prominence.
2017: Sonowal allocated Rs 5 crore during the Eastern Tai Literary Conference to develop Charaideo into a cultural hub. The following year, Rs 25 crore was added to the state budget for the Archaeological Department to advance the UNESCO nomination.
High-Level Committee: Experts such as Dr KC Nauriyal and Dr Yogendra Phukan led the preparation of a comprehensive dossier for UNESCO, submitted under Sonowal’s directives.
Continued Advocacy by Sonowal
As a Union Minister, Sonowal persistently championed the recognition of Charaideo Maidam, ensuring the submission of the nomination to UNESCO through the Ministry of Culture.
Sonowal urged tourists to visit Charaideo, saying, “The site is a testament to the Ahom dynasty’s socio-cultural fabric and will inspire global travellers with its architectural brilliance and rich history.”
This recognition is not just a boost for Assam’s heritage but also places the state on the global map, fostering curiosity about the Ahom dynasty and its contributions. The Charaideo Maidams now stand as a beacon of Assamese pride, reflecting the Ahom rulers’ timeless governance and cultural legacy.
