The 357th Martyrdom Anniversary of the Ahom warriors who sacrificed their lives in the Battle of Alaboi (1669) was observed as Alaboi Ron Smriti Divas in Assam, honouring one of the most significant episodes of Assam’s resistance against the Mughal Empire.

Key Highlights

• The Battle of Alaboi was fought on 5 August 1669 near Alaboi (present-day Dadara–Pacharia area in Kamrup district, Assam) between the Ahom Kingdom. 
• It was led by Lachit Borphukan, and the Mughal forces commanded by Raja Ram Singh I of Amber, who had been deputed by Emperor Aurangzeb.
• The battle formed part of the Ahom–Mughal conflict (1667–1671) that followed the Ahom recapture of Guwahati in 1667.
• Nearly 10,000 Ahom soldiers are believed to have laid down their lives while defending Assam. 
• Although the Ahoms suffered heavy casualties, the Mughal advance was effectively checked, preventing their immediate occupation of the region.
• The sacrifices at Alaboi weakened the Mughal campaign and prepared the ground for the decisive Ahom victory in the Battle of Saraighat (1671) under the leadership of Lachit Borphukan.
• Alaboi Ron Smriti Divas is organised by the Directorate of Archaeology, Assam, in collaboration with the Indigenous and Tribal Faith and Culture Department, the Kamrup District Administration, and the Saraighat Journalists’ Forum, to preserve the memory of the Ahom martyrs and promote awareness of Assam’s rich historical heritage.

Historical Significance

• The Battle of Alaboi symbolises courage, patriotism and selfless sacrifice in defence of Assam’s sovereignty.
• It highlights the resilience of the Ahom Kingdom, which successfully resisted repeated Mughal invasions for centuries.
• The battle remains an important chapter in Assam’s cultural identity and military history, inspiring efforts to preserve historical monuments and educate future generations.

Exam Hook – Prelims Question

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Battle of Alaboi:

1. It was fought between the Ahom Kingdom and the Mughal Empire in 1669.
2. The Mughal forces were commanded by Raja Ram Singh I of Amber.
3. The battle preceded the Battle of Saraighat.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 1 only

Answer: (c)

One-line Wrap

The Battle of Alaboi stands as a timeless symbol of the Ahom warriors’ extraordinary sacrifice, which ultimately laid the foundation for Assam’s historic victory over the Mughals at Saraighat.