Unveiling the Past: Ancient Ahom and Nocte Sites in Arunachal Pradesh
Historical Exploration in Tirap District
In a significant move, a team led by Padmashree awardee Prof. Jogendra Nath Phukan, along with Arunachal Pradesh Minister Wangki Lowang, embarked on an expedition to the Deomali sub-division of Tirap district. Their goal was to explore and document historical sites associated with the ancient Ahoms and the Noctes.
The Maidam of Sumsi Village
The team's first stop was Sumsi village, where they examined an ancient Maidam. This earthen mound, believed to date back to the Ahom era, is a burial tradition followed by the Ahoms. The villagers believe that the massive earthen mound in their village could be the burial site of Swargadeo Joydhaj Singh's mother, according to historical records.
Connecting the Dots: Ahom and Nocte History
The exploration aims to establish a historical bond between the Ahoms and the Noctes. Noted Assam historian Surya Kumar Bhuyan, in his book Assam Buranji, recorded that Swargadeo Joydhaj Singh's mother expired at Namsang during the invasion of Mir Jumla in 1662. The team's findings could potentially confirm the belief of the Sumsi villagers.
The Need for Historical Documentation
Minister Wangki Lowang emphasized the urgent need to document historical facts that have been preserved orally for generations and centuries. He expressed hope that this expedition would help uncover a glorious chapter of Ahom history in Arunachal Pradesh.
Implications for North East India and Beyond
The discovery of these historical sites not only sheds light on the shared past of the Ahoms and Noctes but also contributes to a broader understanding of Northeast India's rich history. The findings could potentially inspire further research and exploration, enriching our collective understanding of the region's past.
Looking Forward
As the team continues their exploration, the findings promise to reveal more about the ancient Ahoms and Noctes. The uncovering of these historical sites not only honors the past but also provides a foundation for future research and understanding. The journey towards unveiling the past is just beginning.