- Moidams of Assam’s Ahom dynasty are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- First cultural property from Northeast India to receive this recognition.
- Represents the spiritual, architectural heritage of Tai-Ahom community.
The mound-burial system of the Ahom dynasty in Assam, known as ‘Moidams,’ has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. This historic recognition is the first for a cultural property from Northeast India. , heritage, and architectural skills.
The decision was made during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee, currently held in India. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma celebrated this achievement, highlighting the Moidams as a testament to the Tai-Ahom community‘s rich spiritual beliefs
UNESCO Recognizes Assam’s Ahom Dynasty Moidams as World Heritage Site
The Moidams are pyramid-like structures that served as royal burial mounds for the Tai-Ahom dynasty, which ruled Assam for approximately 600 years. The Tai-Ahom people migrated from China and established their capital in the Brahmaputra River Valley from the 12th to the 18th century CE.
Moidams are unique pyramid-like burial mounds that were used by the Tai-Ahom dynasty, which ruled Assam for about 600 years. These structures are a testament to the Tai-Ahom people’s architectural prowess and their deep spiritual beliefs. The Tai-Ahom clan migrated from China and established their capital in the Brahmaputra River Valley from the 12th to the 18th century CE. One of the most revered sites among them is Choraideo, where the Tai-Ahoms established their first capital and performed elaborate burial rituals.
The construction of Moidams evolved over the centuries, with initial structures made of wood and later using stone and burnt bricks. This meticulous process is documented in the Changrung Phukan, a canonical text of the Ahoms. The rituals accompanying royal cremations were conducted with great grandeur, reflecting the hierarchical structure of Tai-Ahom society.
The Moidams of Choraideo embody the rich civilizational heritage of the Tai-Ahom community. Their inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List is a significant achievement not only for Assam but also for the broader recognition of Northeast India’s cultural contributions. The Tai-Ahom people believed their kings were divine, leading to the establishment of a unique funerary tradition that has now been honored on a global platform.
The recognition of the Ahom dynasty’s Moidams as a UNESCO World Heritage Site underscores the global significance of Assam’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. This honor brings international attention to the Tai-Ahom community’s architectural and ritualistic traditions, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
“The Moidams of Charaideo embody the deep spiritual belief, rich civilizational heritage, and architectural prowess of Assam’s Tai-Ahom community.” – Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma
