Assam’s Moidams Added to UNESCO World Heritage List
The Moidams, which are the burial mounds of the Ahom dynasty in Assam, have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List under the category of Cultural Property. This decision was made during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) held in Delhi.
Details of the Decision
The World Heritage Committee, composed of representatives from 21 states, is responsible for the Convention for the Protection of the World’s Cultural and Natural Heritage. During the session, the committee examined the state of conservation of 124 sites already on the World Heritage List and reviewed 27 new site proposals.
Reaction from Assam’s Chief Minister
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed his joy, stating, “The Moidams make it to the UNESCO World Heritage list under the category Cultural Property. A great win for Assam. Thank you, Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, members of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, and the people of Assam.”
He added, “The Moidams of Charaideo embody the deep spiritual belief, rich civilisational heritage, and architectural prowess of Assam’s Tai-Ahom community. It is the first time a site from the North East has made it to the UNESCO World Heritage List under the Cultural Category. After Kaziranga and Manas National Parks, it is Assam’s third World Heritage Site. I urge all of you to come and experience Awesome Assam.”
About the Moidams
The Moidams are burial mounds for the Ahom kings, queens, and nobles. The term ‘Moidam’ comes from the Tai words ‘Phrang-Mai-Dam’ or ‘Mai-Tam,’ meaning to bury the spirit of the dead. While Moidams are found in various districts of upper Assam, Charaideo, the first capital of the Ahoms, is the necropolis for almost all Ahom royals. Charaideo is located 28 km east of Sivasagar. The first Ahom king, Chau-lung Siu-ka-pha, was buried there following Tai-Ahom religious rites and rituals.
Doubts Revealed
Moidams -: Moidams are special burial mounds where important people from the Ahom dynasty, who ruled Assam a long time ago, were buried.
UNESCO -: UNESCO is a big international organization that helps protect important places, cultures, and traditions around the world.
World Heritage List -: The World Heritage List is a list of very special places around the world that are protected because they are important to everyone.
Ahom dynasty -: The Ahom dynasty was a group of kings and rulers who controlled Assam for many years in the past.
Cultural Property -: Cultural Property means things or places that are important because of their history, art, or culture.
46th session of the World Heritage Committee -: This was a big meeting where people from different countries came together to decide which new places should be added to the World Heritage List.
Delhi -: Delhi is the capital city of India where many important meetings and events happen.
Assam Chief Minister -: The Chief Minister is the leader of the government in the state of Assam.
Himanta Biswa Sarma -: Himanta Biswa Sarma is the current Chief Minister of Assam, which means he is the main person in charge of the state.
North East India -: North East India is a region in India that includes states like Assam, Meghalaya, and others. It is known for its unique culture and beautiful landscapes.
Charaideo -: Charaideo is a place in Assam where the Moidams are located.
Kaziranga and Manas National Parks -: These are two famous wildlife parks in Assam that are also on the World Heritage List because they have many rare animals and plants.
