Guwahati: The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, visited Charaideo Maidam in Assam, which has recently earned the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, marking a historic achievement as the first cultural site from Northeast India to receive this honor.
Speaking at the event, Sonowal expressed immense pride in Charaideo Maidam’s global recognition. “Charaideo Maidam, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a remarkable testament to the architectural brilliance of the Ahom era, embodying the legacy of our revered ancestors,” he said. “This historic achievement was made possible due to the visionary efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The people of Assam are deeply grateful for his support in bringing global recognition to this heritage. May Charaideo Maidam continue to inspire us with the timeless ideals of the great Ahom rulers, guiding our path in building a prosperous and culturally vibrant state.”
Sonowal further emphasized the significance of the Maidams, describing them as symbols of bravery, valor, and the indomitable courage of the Ahom ancestors. “This UNESCO recognition brings the rich history of the Ahom dynasty to the global stage,” he noted. “The people of Assam are thankful to Prime Minister Modi for playing a pivotal role in securing this long-awaited global honor.”
The Union Minister extended an invitation to tourists from around the world to visit Charaideo Maidam, highlighting its unique cultural and architectural significance. He stressed that the Maidams not only reflect the architectural marvels of the Ahom period but also represent the socio-cultural fabric that the Ahom kings successfully wove during their 600 years of governance.
Sonowal recalled how Swargadeo Chaolung Sukapha laid the foundation of greater Assam in the 13th century by uniting various communities under the principle of ‘Saat Raj Saamari Ek Raj’ (seven kingdoms into one). Drawing a parallel with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,’ Sonowal noted that this journey of inclusive development mirrors Assam’s historical path of unity and prosperity.
The Charaideo Maidam’s elevation to UNESCO World Heritage status was a culmination of years of dedicated efforts and leadership under Sarbananda Sonowal during his tenure as Chief Minister of Assam. In 2020, Sonowal played a crucial role in advocating for the site’s recognition, urging Prime Minister Modi to help bring its heritage to national and international prominence. Following this, the Assam government took proactive steps, holding numerous review meetings to push for Charaideo’s UNESCO nomination.
Sonowal had also announced plans to develop Charaideo as a cultural hub in 2017, allocating a ₹5 crore budget for its development. This was further supplemented by ₹25 crore allocated in 2018 to support the UNESCO nomination process. A high-level committee, led by experts in archaeology and heritage preservation, worked under Sonowal’s guidance to prepare and submit the comprehensive dossier to UNESCO.
As a Union Minister, Sonowal continued his advocacy for the site, personally presenting the dossier to the Prime Minister’s Office, ensuring its submission to UNESCO. His unwavering commitment to Charaideo Maidam’s recognition culminated in its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, placing Assam’s rich history and culture on the global map.
The Charaideo Maidams, often referred to as the “Pyramids of Assam,” are a symbol of the grandeur and historical legacy of the Ahom dynasty, which ruled Assam for over six centuries. This UNESCO recognition is a significant step in preserving and promoting Assam’s heritage on the world stage.