Guwahati, 26th July: In a historic achievement, the mound-burial system known as ‘Moidams’ from Assam’s Ahom dynasty has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. This marks the first cultural property from Northeast India to receive this prestigious recognition.
The announcement came during the ongoing 46th session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) held in India. ‘Moidams’ were submitted as India’s nomination for the 2023-24 cycle.
Assam Chief Minister took to social media platform X to share the news, stating, “The Moidams make it to the #UNESCO World Heritage list under the category Cultural Property. This is a great win for Assam. Thank you, Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji, Members of the @UNESCO World Heritage Committee, and the people of Assam.”
The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) had previously recommended the inclusion of ‘Moidams’ on the UNESCO list. Janhwij Sharma of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) confirmed that ‘Moidams’ meet the necessary criteria for this heritage status.
‘Moidams’ are unique mound-burial sites used by the Tai-Ahom dynasty, characterized by pyramid-like structures. These vaulted chambers, often double-storied, feature arched entry passages. The mounds are constructed with layers of bricks and earth, reinforced by a polygonal toe-wall and an arched gateway on the west side.
This recognition not only highlights the cultural significance of the Ahom dynasty’s burial practices but also puts Northeast India on the global map for heritage preservation.