Moidams: Assam's Ancient Burial Mounds Recognised by UNESCO

India's Moidams have been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, marking a significant achievement for the country. Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat described this recognition as a "day etched in golden letters" and expressed gratitude to UNESCO and the World Heritage Committee for acknowledging the universal value of Moidams, the ancient mound-burial system of the Ahom dynasty in Assam.

The decision to include Moidams in the UNESCO World Heritage List was made during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) held in India. This makes Moidams the first cultural property from Northeast India to receive this prestigious tag. Shekhawat, surrounded by members of the Indian delegation, emphasised the significance of this achievement.

Recognition and Historical Significance

Shekhawat praised the collaboration between the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and Assam's archaeology department, which worked diligently on this site. He referred to the inscription as a "great gift to India" and noted that Moidams had been on UNESCO's Tentative List since 2014. Videos showcasing Moidams were displayed with captions congratulating India.

The Moidams at Charaideo are often called the "Pyramids of India." These grand earthen mounds serve as burial sites for Ahom royalty, dating back to the 13th century. They reflect intricate funerary practices and cosmological beliefs of the Tai-Ahom people. The structures are characterised by their hemispherical shape, brick constructions, and octagonal boundary walls with arched gateways.

Efforts and Preservation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi played a pivotal role in nominating these ancient structures as India's official entry for UNESCO recognition in 2023. This nomination highlights the cultural and historical importance of Moidams, making them the first cultural heritage site from Northeast India to be inscribed on the World Heritage List.

The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) highlighted Moidams' exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition and their representation of significant stages in human history. This recognition underscores efforts by ASI and Assam's government in preserving these historic treasures.

Tourism and Community Impact

Shekhawat mentioned that visiting Charaideo offers insights into the region's rich history and Ahom dynasty's grandeur. Tourists can admire architectural brilliance and preservation efforts that have kept these structures intact. The inclusion of Moidams in UNESCO's list serves as a reminder of conserving cultural heritage for future generations.

Tim Curtis, Director of UNESCO South Asia Regional Office in New Delhi, congratulated India and Assam for this significant inscription. He stated, "The Moidams are a unique site holding immense value for local communities who continue ceremonies there, as well as for all humanity."

Ranjan Sarma, Commissioner and Secretary of Indigenous Tribes and Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam, along with Padmapani Bora, Secretary of Assam's tourism department, also welcomed this decision. Sarma mentioned plans for a common ticketing system, while Bora highlighted community-based homestays in Charaideo.

This historic recognition brings global attention to Assam's unique 700-year-old mound burial system at Charaideo. It highlights India's rich cultural heritage and underscores the importance of preserving such treasures for future generations.