Nestled in the foothills of the Patkai Ranges in eastern Assam lies the royal necropolis of the Tai-Ahom, a testament to a unique funerary tradition. For 600 years, the Tai-Ahom created moidams (burial mounds) that harmonized with the natural topography of hills, forests, and water bodies, forming a sacred landscape. The site, adorned with banyan trees, trees used for coffins, bark manuscripts, and man-made water bodies, contains 90 moidams of varying sizes. These hollow vaults, constructed from brick, stone, or earth, house the remains of kings, royals, and their grave goods, including food, horses, elephants, and sometimes even queens and servants.
The Tai-Ahom rituals of “Me-Dam-Me-Phi” and “Tarpan” continue to be practiced at the Charaideo necropolis. While moidams can be found in other areas of the Brahmaputra Valley, those at Charaideo are particularly exceptional. On July 26, 2024, “Moidams – the Mound-Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty” was officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, marking India’s 43rd entry.
Global Recognition and Significance
The inclusion of Moidams as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a significant cultural achievement for India. Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, emphasized that this recognition highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations. He noted that the global recognition of Moidams underscores New India’s commitment to showcasing its heritage on the world stage.
This inscription marks the third World Heritage Property from Assam, following Kaziranga National Park and Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, both inscribed under the Natural category in 1985. The monumental architecture of the Moidams, comparable to the pyramids of Egyptian pharaohs and royal graves in ancient China, celebrates and preserves the royal lineage of the Ahom Kings.
Preserving Outstanding Universal Values
UNESCO’s World Heritage List aims to preserve and promote shared heritage based on Outstanding Universal Values (OUVs) found in cultural, natural, and mixed properties across 195 countries. India, a member of the World Heritage Committee from 2021-25, is hosting its first-ever session of the World Heritage Convention. The 46th session, held from July 21 to 31, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, has seen the participation of over 150 State Parties.
Speaking at the press briefing after the announcement, Shri Shekhawat highlighted the 700-year-old mound burial system’s global significance. He credited Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for nominating the Moidams in 2023, underscoring their cultural and historical importance. This nomination makes Moidams the first cultural heritage site and the third overall site from the North East to be inscribed on the World Heritage list.
The Unique Funerary Tradition of the Ahom Dynasty
Moidams, or “home-for-spirit,” are sacred burial mounds created by the Tai-Ahom in northeastern India. The Tai-Ahom, who arrived in Assam in the 13th century, established Charaideo as their first city and the site of the royal necropolis. For 600 years, they constructed moidams using natural elements to create a sacred geography. The Tai-Ahom believed their monarchs were divine, leading to the development of this distinct funerary tradition. Initially built with wood and later with stone and burnt bricks, the moidams reflect the hierarchical structure of Tai-Ahom society.
Efforts to Preserve the Moidams
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Assam State Department of Archaeology have collaborated to restore and preserve the integrity of Charaideo. Despite challenges from early 20th-century treasure hunters, the site is well-maintained and protected under central and state regulations. This preservation effort underscores the cultural and historical significance of the Moidams.
The 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee
The ongoing 46th session of the World Heritage Committee is examining 27 nominations from around the world, including 19 Cultural, 4 Natural, 2 Mixed sites, and 2 significant modifications to existing boundaries. India’s nomination of Moidams – The Mound-Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty was the official entry under the category of Cultural Property.
The session’s inaugural ceremony was graced by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, UNESCO Director-General Ms. Audrey Azoulay, Minister for External Affairs Dr. S. Jaishankar, and Minister of Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. The event was attended by Culture Ministers, Ambassadors, and other dignitaries, marking a significant moment in India’s cultural heritage preservation journey.
The recognition of Moidams as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to their outstanding universal value and a reminder of the importance of conserving cultural heritage for future generations.