Ahom Moidams: The Ahom Moidam, a historic cemetery of the royal family in Assam, has recently been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Covering an area of 95.02 hectares with a buffer zone of 754.511 hectares, this site is located in Charaideo and features around 90 unique designs built on elevated land.
Historic Inclusion
In a significant development, the Ahom Moidam has become the first cultural site from Northeast India to be included in the prestigious UNESCO list. The nomination for this site was advocated by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), which prepared a detailed report titled “Evaluation of Nomination of Cultural and Mixed Properties.” This report was presented at the 46th World Heritage Committee (WHC) session held in New Delhi, where the inclusion of Moidam in the UNESCO World Heritage List was finalized.
Unique Architectural Heritage
The Ahom Moidam is a royal cemetery that showcases the architectural brilliance and craftsmanship of medieval Assam. Spread over 95.02 hectares, it comprises 90 structures designed to resemble hollow earthen mounds made of brick, stone, or clay. Each structure is centered around an octagonal wall with a temple built in the middle. These structures are located on elevated land, highlighting their significance and grandeur.
Cultural Significance
Culture Minister Shekhawat expressed his gratitude to UNESCO, stating that this day is inscribed in golden letters as India has acquired its 43rd property in the World Heritage List. The Ahom Moidam not only reflects the rich cultural heritage of Assam but also serves as a testament to the region’s historical and architectural legacy.
Role of ICOMOS
The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), based in France, is an advisory organization of UNESCO dedicated to cultural heritage. This international non-governmental organization comprises experts, professionals, local authorities, companies, and members of heritage organizations. ICOMOS focuses on the conservation and promotion of architectural and landscape heritage worldwide.
By securing a place in the UNESCO World Heritage List, the Ahom Moidam stands as a remarkable symbol of Assam’s royal history and cultural heritage, marking a significant achievement for India on the global stage.
