A125-feet bronze statue of the great Ahom General Lachit Barphukan was unveiled at his burial site in Jorhat district by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 9. Accompanied by Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Prime Minister participated in a traditional Tai Ahom ritual before unveiling the statue.
The statue was unveiled at the Lachit Barphukan Maidam Development Project at Holongapar near Teok in the district. The area, spread over 16.5 acres, is being developed as a tourist spot, highlighting the history of the State. Known as the ‘Statue of Valour’, it is a part of the Lachit Barphukan Maidam Development Project, which aims to celebrate the legacy of the Ahom General and boost tourism in the State.
The Statue of Valour is 84-feet tall, while it is set on a pedestal of 41-feet. The foundation of the statue was laid by former President Ram Nath Kovind in February 2022.
The Prime Minister in his speech referred to the legendary Ahom general as the symbol of Assam’s valour and determination. PM Modi also recalled with joy celebrating his 400th birth anniversary with great pomp and honour in 2023 in New Delhi.
Veteran sculptor Ram Vanji Sutar, a Padma Bhushan awardee, was entrusted with the work of making the statue, which was built at his studio in Ghaziabad in UP. The statue of Lachit was transported in parts to Assam in six months beginning September 2023 to February 2024 and was re-assembled at the site.
Sutar, a renowned sculptor of the country is known for crafting the Statue of Unity in Gujarat.
A gallery showcasing the history of the Ahom dynasty’s 600-years of rule is also being built at the site, while another gallery is being set up to feature the contemporary history of the State.
The project cost is being estimated at ₹214 crore.
