For the first time, The World Heritage Committee Meeting is being hosted by India which will take place on from July 21 to 31, 2024 in New Delhi. The World Heritage Committee is held annually and is responsible for managing all matters on World Heritage and deciding on sites to be inscribed on the World Heritage list, informed Ministry of Culture, PIB.
“The 46th session of the World Heritage Committee in 2024 will examine 27 nominations from around the world, including 19 Cultural, 4 Natural, 2 Mixed sites and 2 Significant modifications to the boundaries. Out of which, India’s Moidams – The Mound – Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty is set to be examined under the category of Cultural Property,” stated the Ministry.
Moidams – the Mound-Burial system of the Ahom Dynasty
The Ministry added that the Tai-Ahom established their capital during the 12-18th Cebtury CE in various parts of the Brahmaputra River Valley after migrating from China, whereby, Choraideo, is said to be one of the most revered sites. It was here that the Tai-Ahoms established their first capital under Chau-lung Siu-ka-pha at the foothills of the Patkai hills. This sacred site, known as Che-rai-doi or Che-tam-doi, was consecrated with rituals that reflected the deep spiritual beliefs of the Tai-Ahoms. Over centuries, Choraideo retained its significance as a burial ground where the departed souls of the Tai-Ahom royals transcended into the afterlife.
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Historical Context
Additionally, the Ministry also noted that the unique funerary traditions were held as the people believed their kings to be divine and these constructions were known as Moidams or vaulted mounds which were mainly for the royals and royal burials.
The practice continued for 600 years making use of varying materials and architectural techniques evolving over time. “Initially using wood, and later stone and burnt bricks, the construction of Moidams was a meticulous process detailed in the Changrung Phukan, a canonical text of the Ahoms. Rituals accompanying royal cremations were conducted with great grandeur, reflecting the hierarchical structure of Tai-Ahom society,” stated the Ministry.
Additionally, the Ministry noted that Excavation shows that each vaulted chamber has a centrally raised platform where the body was laid. “Several objects used by the deceased during his life, like royal insignia, objects made in wood or ivory or iron, gold pendants, ceramic ware, weapons, clothes to the extent of human beings (only from the Luk-kha-khun clan) were buried with their king, added the Ministry.
Architectural Features
Moidams are characterised by vaulted chambers, often double-storied, accessed through arched passages. The chambers housed centrally raised platforms where the deceased were laid to rest along with their royal insignia, weapons, and personal belongings. The construction of these mounds involved layers of bricks, earth, and vegetation, transforming the landscape into undulating hillocks reminiscent of celestial mountains.
Cultural Significance
The continuity of the Moidam tradition at Choraideo underscores its Outstanding Universal Value under UNESCO criteria. This funerary landscape not only reflects Tai-Ahom beliefs about life, death, and the afterlife but also served as a testament to their cultural identity amidst shifts towards Buddhism and Hinduism among the population. The concentration of Moidams at Choraideo distinguishes it as the largest and most significant cluster, preserving the grand royal burial practices unique to the Tai-Ahoms.
Conservation Efforts
Despite challenges such as vandalism by treasure seekers in the early 20th century, concerted efforts by the Archaeological Survey of India and the Assam State Department of Archaeology have restored and preserved the integrity of Choraideo. Protected under national and state laws, the site continues to be managed to safeguard its structural and cultural authenticity.
Comparisons with Similar Properties
The ancient Moidams of Choraideo have been linked to China’s royal tombs and Egypt’s pyramids, showcasing the universal importance of honouring royal lineage through monumental architecture. Within the Tai-Ahom cultural region, Choraideo stands out for its scale, concentration, and spiritual significance, highlighting its enduring cultural value.
Choraideo which is located at foothills of Patkai remains as a profound symbol of Tai-Ahom heritage which embodies the beliefs, rituals and architectural prowess. As a landscape shaped by centuries of royal burials, it continues to inspire awe and reverence, offering insights into the cultural evolution and spiritual worldview of the Tai-Ahoms. “Preserved through careful conservation efforts, Choraideo stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Tai-Ahom civilization in the Brahmaputra River Valley. In conclusion, the Moidams of Choraideo not only embody architectural and cultural significance but also serve as a poignant reminder of the Tai-Ahom people’s deep spiritual connection to their land and their departed kings,” added the Ministry.
