External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed immense joy and pride over the inclusion of Assam’s Charaideo Maidams on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This significant cultural milestone, announced on Friday during the 46th World Heritage Committee session in New Delhi, highlights the Indian government’s focus on the Northeast’s development under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership over the past decade.
The ‘Moidams – the Mound-Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty’ is now recognized as a World Heritage site, marking a first for the Northeast region. Jaishankar celebrated this achievement as a testament to the government’s dedication to enhancing the cultural prominence of the area, attributing the success to Modi’s guidance and support.
Prime Minister Modi also voiced his pride, emphasizing the Moidams’ representation of the rich Ahom culture and its deep respect for ancestors. He expressed hope that this recognition would broaden global understanding of the Ahom heritage.
The Moidams, monumental structures honoring royal lineage, are akin to the pyramids of Egypt and ancient Chinese royal tombs. This recognition adds to India’s growing list of World Heritage sites, bringing the total to 43, with the Moidams joining Kaziranga National Park and Manas Wildlife Sanctuary from Assam.
The Ministry of Culture noted that UNESCO’s inclusion of such sites aims to preserve and celebrate outstanding universal values across various cultural and natural properties. India, having joined the World Heritage Committee for the 2021-25 term, is hosting its first session since becoming a member of the World Heritage Convention in 1972. The ongoing session, which began on July 21 and will run until July 31 at Bharat Mandapam, underscores India’s commitment to safeguarding its rich heritage.
