GUWAHATI: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Thursday visited the Charaideo Maidams after it was recognised as the World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the first such honour for any cultural site of the Northeast.
Speaking on the occasion, Sonowal said, “Charaideo Maidams, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a remarkable testament to the architectural brilliance of the Ahom era, embodying the legacy of the revered ancestors. “
“This historic achievement was made possible through the visionary efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The people of Assam remain deeply grateful to Prime Minister Modi for bringing global recognition to this heritage. May the rich tradition of Charaideo Maidam continue to shine brightly, inspiring us with the timeless ideals of the great Ahom rulers and guiding our path in building a prosperous and culturally vibrant state,” the Union minister said.
He further remarked that the Maidams of Charaideo, carrying the legacy of the bravery, valour and indomitable courage of the great Ahom ancestors, stand as enduring symbols of self-respect and pride for the greater Assamese nation.
“This global recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site brings the rich history of the Ahom dynasty to the global stage. I would also like to take this opportunity to invite global travellers and tourists to visit the Charaideo Maidam to witness the unique cultural architectural brilliance and cultural traditions of the Ahom period,” Sonowal said.
“The tourists will also experience one of greatest socio-cultural fabric in a kaleidoscopic Assamese society that Ahom kings were successful in weaving through their illustrious 600 years of good governance. Today, the due recognition of Charaideo Maidams as UNESCO World Heritage Site has generated curiosity and inquisitiveness among global travellers and tourists from all over Assam and Ahom heritage,” he said.
Sonowal further added, “In the 13th century, Swargadeo Chaolung Sukapha laid the foundation of greater Assam by uniting various communities under the policy of ‘Saat Raj Saamari Ek Raj’ (seven kingdoms into one) and establishing good governance. Inspired by the same ideals, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, through his vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,’ has united the people of India to pave the way for a strong, developed, and self-reliant nation. This journey of inclusive development, encompassing every community in India, is a journey of harmony, empowerment, and the strengthening of every citizen, bringing the nation together as one.”
Background
It may be noted that, in a step toward preserving Assam’s heritage, the ‘Charaideo Maidams’ were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a milestone built on years of meticulous planning and leadership under Shri Sarbananda Sonowal during his tenure as the Chief Minister of Assam.
In 2020, Sonowal participated in the state government-organised “Me-Dam-Me-Phi” celebrations at Charaideo, where he urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to elevate the site’s heritage to national and international prominence. Acting on Sonowal’s directives, the Assam government conducted several review meetings with relevant ministers to push for Charaideo’s UNESCO nomination.
In 2017, Sonowal announced plans to develop Charaideo into a cultural hub during the Eastern Tai Literary Conference held in the region. Sonowal allocated an initial budget of Rs 5 crore, which was included in that year’s financial plan. The following year, Rs 25 crore was allocated in the state budget under the Archaeological Department to support the UNESCO nomination process.
The initiative gained momentum with the formation of a high-level committee led by former Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India, K.C. Nauriyal, alongside experts such as Yogendra Phukan, Dayananda Borgohain, Dilip Burhagohain, Jaribul Alam and Jiten Borpatra Gohain. The committee, acting under Sonowal’s instructions, overcame numerous challenges to prepare and submit a comprehensive dossier well ahead of schedule to UNESCO through the Ministry of Culture.
During his tenure as a Union Cabinet minister, Sonowal continued to advocate for Charaideo’s recognition. He presented the dossier to the Prime Minister’s Office and ensured its submission to UNESCO, marking a major step in securing the site’s World Heritage status.
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