Imprints of Ahom Kingdom: Historicity of Sivasagar

Name - Techi Joengam

Enrollment number: S213PAH24
Submitted to - Dr Sima Yadav

Introduction

The Ahom Kingdom, a late medieval kingdom that ruled over the region of Assam in
northeast India, left a lasting imprint on the historic town of Sivasagar. Located in the
present-day state of Assam, Sivasagar was the capital of the Ahom Kingdom for several
centuries. The Ahoms, a Tai ethnic group, established their kingdom in Assam in the 13th
century and ruled until the early 19th century, leaving behind a rich legacy evident in the
historicity of Sivasagar. The town is known for its impressive palaces, magnificent temples,
grand tanks, and rich cultural traditions that reflect the grandeur and cultural heritage of the
Ahom Kingdom.

This paper will explore the historical significance of the Ahom Kingdom and its influence on
Sivasagar. We will delve into the architectural marvels, religious sites, hydraulic engineering
achievements, and cultural practices that are the imprints of the Ahom Kingdom in Sivasagar,
showcasing the enduring legacy of this medieval kingdom in the region's history and culture.
From the grandeur of the palaces and temples to the sophistication of the tanks and reservoirs
and the preservation of cultural practices and traditions, Sivasagar stands as a living testament
to the historicity of the Ahom Kingdom and its remarkable contributions to the region's
heritage. This paper attempts to uncover the imprints of the Ahom Kingdom in Sivasagar, a
town that holds a significant place in the history of Assam and India.
The historical significance of the Ahom Kingdom and its influence on
Sivasagar

Sivasagar, which literally translates to ‘sea of Shiva’, was formerly called Rangpur when the
Ahoms first ruled the region. However, some sources claim that the region was initially also
called ‘Kalansupar’, based on a person named Kalansu Gohain, who was a resident of the
city. The region was finally named Sivasagar after the famous Shiva doul was constructed by
the Ahom queen Bar Raja Ambika in 1733-34 AD.

The Ahom Kingdom, which ruled over the Brahmaputra Valley in present-day Assam, India,
from the 13th to the 19th centuries, holds immense historical significance. The Ahoms were a
Tai-Shan people who migrated to the region from present-day Yunnan Province in China and
parts of Myanmar; and established a prosperous and powerful dynasty that left a lasting
impact on the history, culture, and architecture of the region. The influence of the Ahom
Kingdom on Sivasagar, their capital city for over six centuries, is evident in various aspects.

First and foremost, Sivasagar served as the political and administrative centre of the Ahom
Kingdom, making it a hub of power and governance. The Ahom rulers, who were known for
their efficient administration and military prowess, established their capital in Sivasagar and
built a complex system of governance that left a mark on the town's historical significance.
The town was home to the royal palace, where the Ahom kings resided, and the seat of the
kingdom's administration, with elaborate administrative structures, courts, and offices. The
Ahom Kingdom's political significance in Sivasagar is evident in the remains of the Rang
Ghar, a two-storied amphitheatre-like structure, which was used for royal ceremonies,
meetings, and public gatherings, and is considered one of the oldest surviving pavilions in
Asia.

The Ahom Kingdom also made a profound cultural impact on Sivasagar. The Ahoms brought
their unique Tai-Shan culture, which was a blend of indigenous beliefs, Buddhism, and
Hinduism, and this cultural synthesis is evident in the town's religious structures. Sivasagar is
home to several ancient temples, such as the Shiva Doul, Vishnu Doul, and Devi Doul, which
are fine examples of Ahom architecture and showcase the influence of Hinduism in the
region. The temples are adorned with intricate carvings, sculptures, and decorative elements
that reflect the artistic and cultural sensibilities of the Ahoms.

Additionally, the Ahom Kingdom's engineering feats and hydraulic infrastructure have left a
lasting impact on Sivasagar's historical significance. The Ahom kings were known for their
mastery of water management and constructed a complex network of tanks and artificial
lakes, known as Borphukans, to manage water resources for irrigation, fishing, and drinking
water supply. These massive tanks, with their intricate embankments and sluice gates, are
marvels of engineering and continue to serve as a significant source of water for the region
even today. The Rangpur Palace, situated on the banks of the Joysagar tank, is another
example of the Ahom Kingdom's engineering prowess, with its intricate water management
system that allows for boating and recreational activities.

In conclusion, the Ahom Kingdom's historical significance cannot be overstated, and its
influence on Sivasagar is evident in various aspects. From being the political and
administrative centre of the Ahom Kingdom to showcasing its unique culture and
architecture, Sivasagar stands as a living testament to the glorious reign of the Ahom dynasty.
The Ahom Kingdom's engineering feats and hydraulic infrastructure continue to shape the
town's landscape and are a testimony to the kingdom's advanced technological achievements.
Exploring the imprints of the Ahom Kingdom in Sivasagar provides a fascinating insight into
the rich history and cultural heritage of the region, making it a significant destination for
historians, archaeologists, and tourists alike.

Imprints of the Ahom Kingdom in the city of Sivasagar

The technological and architectural advancements of Ahoms have contributed to the

overflowing number of architectural wonders in Sivasagar. It has to be brought to notice that
most of the architectural structures were built using a mortar of duck eggs or Bora Chawal
which is a kind of thick and sticky variety of rice grain. These building materials are natural
and perishable, and therefore most of the structures are either in ruins already or in a
desperate need of conservative policies to prevent any kind of damage. The city of Sivasagar
currently houses numerous historical structures, for example, Namdang Sila Saku, Namti
Vishnu Doul, Gorokhiya Doul and a few Maidams. The Douls are the temples of the Ahoms,
and the Maidams are the royal burial grounds of the Ahoms. In the subsequent paragraphs,
the paper will present a few of the most well-known and architecturally stunning structures of
the Ahoms in Sivasagar.

1. Palaces and Monuments

Sivasagar is home to several remarkable palaces and monuments built during the Ahom era.
The Rang Ghar, a two-story royal pavilion, is an iconic structure and is considered one of the
oldest amphitheatres in Asia. The Talatal Ghar, a seven-storied palace built of brick and
shaped like a giant tortoise, is another prominent landmark that reflects the architectural
brilliance of the Ahoms. The Kareng Ghar, a multi-storied palace, served as the royal
residence and is a testament to Ahom's advanced engineering skills.
 ● Talatal Ghar

The Talatal Ghar was constructed by Ahom King Rudra Singh in the first decade of the
1700s. The structure was, at the time, built of semi-permanent materials. Later his successor
Swargadeo Rajeswar Singha reconstructed the Talatal Ghar with bricks in 1751 as a military
complex and royal residence. The palace is known for its unique design and features, with
multi-storied structures built below the ground level. "Talatal" means "below the ground" in
Assamese, and the palace is aptly named due to its underground architecture. The Talatal
Ghar is made of brick and has several levels, including three floors below ground level and
four floors above ground level. The underground floors were used as secret chambers,
tunnels, and passages for military purposes, while the above-ground floors housed the royal
family and were used for administrative purposes. The palace complex has various features,
such as a stable, a kitchen, a guard room, a prison, and an ammunition room. It also has
strategic military features like two escape tunnels that lead to the Dikhow River and the
Garhgaon palace, which was used as an emergency exit during times of war. Today, Talatal
Ghar stands as a historical monument and a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Assam.
Visitors can explore the underground chambers, marvel at the unique architecture, and learn
about the history of the Ahom dynasty and their military prowess.
 ● Rang Ghar

Rang Ghar is another historical monument located in Assam, India. It is an amphitheatre-like

structure that is considered to be one of the oldest surviving pavilions in Asia. Rang Ghar is
located in the town of Sivasagar. Rang Ghar was built by Ahom king Swargadeo Pramatta
Singha in the late 18th century, around 1746-1750. The structure was primarily used as a
royal sports pavilion for various recreational activities like watching traditional sports and
games, including buffalo fights and other entertainment events. The Ahom kings and nobles
used to witness these events from the elevated gallery of Rang Ghar. Rang Ghar is a
two-storied building made of brick and has a distinctive elongated oval shape with a thatched
roof. The structure is about 8 meters in height and spans about 30 meters in length, with
arched entrances and windows. The exterior of Rang Ghar is adorned with decorative motifs
and sculptures, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the Ahom dynasty. Rang Ghar is
an important cultural landmark in Assam and reflects the architectural prowess of the Ahom
dynasty. It is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can explore the interior of the pavilion,
learn about its history and significance, and appreciate the unique design and craftsmanship
of this ancient structure. Rang Ghar stands as a proud symbol of Assam's rich cultural
heritage and attracts tourists from all over the world.
 ● Kareng Ghar

Kareng Ghar is a historical palace in Assam, a state in northeastern India. It is also known as
the "Garhgaon Palace" or the "Gargaon Palace." The palace is situated in Sivasagar town,
which was the capital of the Ahom kingdom that ruled Assam for several centuries. Kareng
Ghar was built during the reign of Swargadeo Sukhampha, who was the first Ahom king to
establish the capital in Sivasagar in the 18th century. It was initially constructed as a military
base and was later expanded into a grand palace complex by subsequent Ahom kings. The
architecture of Kareng Ghar is a unique blend of Ahom and Hindu styles, with influences
from the Mughal and Sino-Burmese architectural traditions. The palace is made of wood and
stands on a raised plinth, with four stories and a height of about 40 feet. It has several
intricately carved doorways, chambers, and balconies. The walls of Kareng Ghar are adorned
with beautiful sculptures, floral motifs, and other decorative elements. Kareng Ghar served as
the royal residence of the Ahom kings and was also used for official and ceremonial
purposes. It was an important centre of administration, culture, and art during the Ahom
dynasty. Today, Kareng Ghar is a popular tourist attraction and a significant heritage site in
Assam, showcasing the rich history and architectural excellence of the Ahom civilization.

2. Temples and Reservoirs

The Ahom Kingdom was known for its unique blend of Hinduism and indigenous animistic
beliefs. Sivasagar houses several ancient temples and religious sites that were constructed
during the Ahom reign. The Shiva Doul, a 104-foot-tall temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a
prime example of Ahom's devotion to Hindu deities. The Vishnu Doul, a temple dedicated to
Lord Vishnu, and the Devi Doul, a temple dedicated to the goddess Durga, are other
significant religious sites in Sivasagar that exhibit Ahom's religious practices. The Ahoms
were known for their expertise in hydraulic engineering and built numerous tanks and
reservoirs in Sivasagar for irrigation and water management. The Sivasagar tank, also known
as the Borpukhuri, is a massive man-made water body that covers an area of about 129 acres
and was built by the Ahom king Shiva Singha in the 18th century. The Joysagar tank and the
Rudrasagar tank are other examples of Ahom-built reservoirs that are still functional and
provide water for irrigation and fishing to this day.

● Sivasagar Temples and Tank

The Sivasagar temple complex houses three Douls, with the biggest Shiva Doul in the centre;
and the Vishnu and Devi Doul on both sides. The three temples or Douls are situated beside a
big lake, which is the case for all the douls in Sivasagar. This was a unique feature of the
Ahoms, wherein they constructed big lakes beside temples. All three temples, including the
tank, i.e., the Borphukuri, were constructed by Queen Ambika, wife of Swargadeo Shiv
Sangha, in the period between 1733-34 AD.

Shiva Doul is a famous pilgrimage site. It is a revered place of worship dedicated to Lord
Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism. The Shiva Doul was constructed by Queen
Ambika, the wife of Swargadeo Shiv Sangha, in 1734 AD. The temple is known for its
unique architectural style, which reflects a blend of Hindu and Assamese cultural influences.
It is built in the Shikhara style of architecture, and its Shikhara is crowned by a Kalash made
of gold. Shiva Doul is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shiva and attracts a
large number of visitors, especially during the festival of Shivaratri, which is celebrated with
great enthusiasm at the temple. Devotees come to offer prayers, perform rituals, and seek
blessings from Lord Shiva. The temple is also considered an important cultural and historical
landmark in Assam, showcasing the rich heritage and traditions of the region.
Vishnu Doul Temple is a temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is considered one of the
most important gods in Hindu mythology. The tower of the temple has a honeycomb design
with an ornamental criss-cross framework. Vishnu Dol Temple is an important pilgrimage
site for Hindus in Assam and attracts many devotees and tourists throughout the year. The
temple's serene ambience, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage make it a
must-visit destination for those interested in Hindu spirituality and history.

Devi Doul Temple is the third temple in the Sivasagar temple complex. It is dedicated to the
worship of Goddess Durga. It is vertically elevated and has an undulating pattern.

Sivasagar Tank, also known as Borkhupari, is a historic man-made tank located in Sivasagar
town, which is in the Sivasagar district of the state of Assam, India. It is one of the oldest and
largest tanks in Assam and holds significant historical, cultural, and recreational value. The
Sivasagar Tank was built during the Ahom dynasty, which ruled Assam for centuries. It was
constructed by Ahom King Siva Singha in the 18th century to serve as a major water
reservoir for the town of Sivasagar, the capital of the Ahom kingdom at that time. The tank
was named after the king, and "Sivasagar" literally translates to "the ocean of Lord Shiva" in
the Assamese language. The tank covers an area of about 257 acres and has a length of
around 5 kilometres. It is surrounded by lush greenery, and its banks are dotted with temples,
pavilions, and gardens, which add to its serene and picturesque ambience. The tank is
connected to various channels and canals, which were used for irrigation and navigation
purposes in the past. Sivasagar Tank has historical significance as it was not only a major
source of water for the people of Sivasagar but also played a strategic role in defence of the
Ahom kingdom. It served as a natural moat around the Ahom royal palace, which was
situated nearby, providing protection against enemy invasions. Today, Sivasagar Tank is a
popular tourist attraction and a favoured spot for recreational activities such as boating and
picnicking. The tank is also an important site for celebrating religious and cultural events,
including the Shivaratri festival, during which thousands of devotees throng the tank to take a
ritual bath and offer prayers to Lord Shiva. In recent years, efforts have been made by the
local authorities to restore and preserve the historical and cultural significance of Sivasagar
Tank, including the development of its surroundings as a tourist destination. It remains an
important landmark in Sivasagar and a symbol of the rich heritage and legacy of the Ahom
dynasty in Assam.
 ● Gauri Sagar Temple and Tank

Gauri Sagar Temple is known for its rich cultural and historical significance. The temple is
dedicated to Goddess Gauri, a form of the Hindu goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva.
Gauri Sagar Temple is an ancient temple that has been an important place of worship for the
locals for many generations. The temple complex is sprawling and includes multiple
structures, including the main sanctum sanctorum, a mandap (hall), and a large courtyard
where devotees gather for prayers and rituals. The main deity of the temple is Goddess Gauri,
who is believed to be the embodiment of purity, power, and grace. Devotees offer prayers,
perform rituals, and seek the blessings of the goddess for various purposes, including
prosperity, well-being, and protection from evil. The temple is known for its exquisite
architectural style, which reflects a blend of Hindu and Ahom (a local dynasty that ruled
Assam) influences. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting
scenes from Hindu mythology and folklore. Gauri Sagar Temple is also associated with
several religious festivals and events that are celebrated with fervour by the local community.
One of the major festivals celebrated at the temple is Navaratri, which is a nine-day festival
dedicated to the worship of the divine feminine. During this festival, the temple is beautifully
decorated, and various cultural programs and rituals take place. The temple holds immense
religious and cultural significance for the people of Assam and attracts devotees and tourists
who seek blessings and witness its architectural beauty. It is a must-visit destination for those
interested in Hindu culture and history while visiting Assam.

Gauri Sagar Tank is a large man-made tank in Sivasagar, Assam, India. It is a historic tank
built during the reign of the Ahom dynasty. Gauri Sagar Tank is one of the oldest and largest
tanks in Assam, and it holds significant historical, cultural, and religious importance. The
tank was built in the 18th century by Ahom King Swargadeo Rudra Singha in honour of his
queen, Gauristuti, and it is named after her. The tank is spread over an area of about 150 acres
and is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a serene and picturesque location. Gauri Sagar
Tank is known for its impressive embankments and masonry work, which were constructed
using the technique of sun-dried bricks, known as 'khar'. The tank has a complex system of
channels and sluice gates to regulate the water flow, used for irrigation, fishery, and other
agricultural purposes. The tank is also considered sacred by the local people, and it is
associated with various religious and cultural practices. The tank is surrounded by several
small temples and shrines dedicated to Hindu deities, and it is a popular place for devotees to
offer prayers and perform rituals. One of the significant events associated with Gauri Sagar
Tank is the traditional Raas festival, which is celebrated during the Hindu month of Kartik
(October-November). During this festival, a grand procession of idols of Lord Krishna and
Radha is taken around the tank, and cultural programs, music, and dance performances are
organized. Gauri Sagar Tank is not only a place of religious significance but also serves as an
important water resource for local agricultural activities. It is also a popular tourist
destination, attracting visitors with its historical and cultural significance, scenic beauty, and
serene atmosphere. Visiting Gauri Sagar Tank is a unique experience as it offers a glimpse
into the rich history, cultural practices, and architectural marvels of the Ahom dynasty. It is a
must-visit destination for those interested in Assam's culture, heritage, and natural beauty.
 ● Joysagar Temple and Tank

Joysagar Temple, also known as Joy Doul, is a historic temple and is dedicated to Lord
Vishnu, a major deity in Hinduism. The temple is situated on the banks of Joysagar, a large
man-made pond built during the reign of the Ahom kings in the 17th century. Joysagar
Temple was built in the 18th century by Rangpuria Royals during the Ahom dynasty's rule in
Assam. It is believed to have been constructed by King Rudra Singha in 1744, and it is
considered an important pilgrimage site for the Vaishnavite community in Assam. The temple
is known for its distinctive architectural style, which is a blend of Ahom and Hindu elements.
It is built in a unique octagonal shape and is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures
depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, including the avatars of Lord Vishnu. One of the
key features of Joysagar Temple is its large courtyard, which is used for various religious and
cultural events. The temple complex also includes a Dola Gobinda Mandir, which is a smaller
temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, and a park surrounding the pond, making it a popular spot
for picnics and recreational activities. Joysagar Temple holds significant religious and
cultural importance for the people of Assam. It is a popular place of worship for devotees
who come to offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Vishnu. The temple also hosts
various festivals and events, including the Dol Jatra, which is a spring festival celebrated with
joy and enthusiasm. Visiting Joysagar Temple is a unique experience as it offers a glimpse
into the rich history, architecture, and religious practices of the region. The serene
surroundings of the pond and the majestic temple complex make it a popular tourist
destination and an important cultural heritage site in Assam.
Joysagar Tank, also known as Rangpur Tank. It is one of the largest man-made tanks in the
world and is known for its historical and cultural significance. Joysagar Tank was built during
the reign of the Ahom dynasty, which ruled Assam for several centuries. It was constructed
by Ahom King Rudra Singha in the 18th century, named after his mother, Joymoti, and was
intended to serve as a major water reservoir for irrigation and drinking water purposes, as
well as for recreational activities. The tank covers an area of about 318 acres and has a length
of approximately 3.5 kilometres, making it one of the largest tanks in the world. It is
surrounded by embankments made of brick and masonry, and its water is fed by several
channels and canals connected to the Dikhow River, which flows nearby. Joysagar Tank is
not only known for its sheer size but also for its historical and cultural significance. It was a
major centre of social and cultural activities during the Ahom era and served as a venue for
various recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and picnicking. The tank and its
surroundings were also developed into a beautiful garden called Kareng Ghar, which was a
popular spot for the royal family and the nobility to relax and enjoy leisurely activities. The
tank area also houses three historic temples known as the Joy Dol, Shiv Dol, and Devi Dol,
which were constructed during the Ahom period and are dedicated to different Hindu deities.
These temples are significant examples of Ahom architecture and are known for their
intricate carvings and sculptures. Today, Joysagar Tank is a popular tourist destination and a
cherished landmark in Sivasagar. The tank and its surroundings have been preserved and
maintained by the local authorities, and efforts have been made to restore and promote its
historical and cultural significance. Visitors can enjoy boating, picnicking, and exploring the
historical temples while experiencing the rich heritage and legacy of the Ahom dynasty in
Assam.

3. Cultural Practices and Traditions

The Ahom Kingdom had a rich cultural heritage that left a lasting impact on the people of
Sivasagar. The Ahom's language, music, dance, and festivals are still celebrated and
preserved in Sivasagar. The Bihu festival, which is the most popular festival of Assam, has its
roots in the Ahom culture and is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Sivasagar. The
traditional Ahom dance forms like the Sattriya dance and the Bihu dance are also performed
and cherished in the town, keeping the cultural traditions of the Ahoms alive.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the Ahom Kingdom's historical significance cannot be overstated, and its
influence on Sivasagar is evident in various aspects. From being the political and
administrative centre of the Ahom Kingdom to showcasing its unique culture and
architecture, Sivasagar stands as a living testament to the glorious reign of the Ahom dynasty.
The Ahom Kingdom's engineering feats and hydraulic infrastructure continue to shape the
town's landscape and are a testimony to the kingdom's advanced technological achievements.
Exploring the imprints of the Ahom Kingdom in Sivasagar provides a fascinating insight into
the rich history and cultural heritage of the region, making it a significant destination for
historians, archaeologists, and tourists alike.

References

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https://www.assamtourism.gov.in/destination/details/gaurisagar.

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