The
Moidams: Homes for the Spirits of Ahom Kings
What is a Moidam?
Imagine a big, round hill made of
earth. It's not just any hill; it's a special tomb called a Moidam. The
Ahom kings and queens of ancient Assam were buried in these unique structures.
The word 'Moidam' comes from the Tai language, spoken by the Ahom people.
'Phrang' means 'to bury' and 'dam' means 'spirit of the dead'. Moidam
(pr. Moidams; from Tai, 'Phrang Mai': to bury, and 'Dam': spirit of the dead)
are tumuli or burial mounds of the Tai-Ahom Dynasty. So, a Moidam is essentially a home
built for the spirit of a deceased king or queen.
The Ahom people held a profound
belief in the afterlife. They thought that while a person's body might perish,
their spirit lived on. This belief was especially strong for their kings and
queens, who were considered almost divine. To honor their departed rulers and
provide a suitable abode for their spirits, they constructed Moidams.
Charaideo: The City of Moidams
Charaideo, a place in Assam, is
renowned as the 'city of Moidams'. The word Che-Rai-Doi
('Che': city, 'rai': prominent/ shining and 'doi': hill, that is, Shining City
on Hills). It’s home to
a large number of these royal burial mounds. The Ahom kings chose Charaideo as
their first capital, and it became a sacred site for them. Over centuries, they
buried their kings and queens here, transforming Charaideo into a necropolis of
immense historical and cultural significance.
When the Ahom people first arrived
in Charaideo, they were captivated by its natural beauty. They described it as
a 'shining city on a hill'. This admiration led them to establish their capital
here and create a sacred space for their royal ancestors.
The Construction of Moidams
Building a Moidam was a complex
and elaborate process. It began by selecting a suitable location, often a
hilltop. A deep pit was then dug, and a strong underground chamber was
constructed to house the body. This chamber was carefully sealed to protect the
remains. Finally, a massive mound of earth was built over the chamber, creating
the distinctive shape of a Moidam.
In addition to the body, other
valuable items were placed inside the Moidam. These included personal
belongings, jewelry, and even horses and elephants, which were believed to
accompany the deceased in the afterlife. The Ahom people had a rich belief
system that extended beyond earthly life, and the Moidams were a tangible
expression of this faith.
The Legacy of the Moidams
Today, the Moidams stand as
powerful symbols of the Ahom kingdom's grandeur and the reverence its people
held for their rulers. They offer invaluable insights into the Ahom people's
beliefs, customs, and funerary practices. Visiting Charaideo and witnessing
these ancient monuments is a journey back in time, allowing us to connect with
the rich heritage of Assam.
The Moidams are not just
historical relics; they are living testaments to a bygone era. They continue to
inspire awe and wonder, reminding us of the intricate tapestry of India's
cultural heritage.
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