Moidams – The Mound-Burial System of Ahom Dynasty from Assam – has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage list, and with this India stands at the 6th position globally for the most number of World Heritage Property.
The announcement was made on Friday during the ongoing 46th session of the World Heritage Committee here. This makes it the 43rd property from India to be included UNESCO World Heritage list, the Ministry of Culture said in a statement.
Moidams is the third World Heritage Property from Assam, following Kaziranga National Park and Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, both inscribed under the Natural category in 1985. The Moidams of Choraideo, which celebrate and preserve royal lineage through colossal architecture, are comparable to the pyramids of Egyptian pharaohs and royal graves in ancient China.
Addressing the media after the announcement, the Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said, “This historic recognition brings global attention to the unique 700-year-old mound burial system of the Ahom Kings at Charaideo, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of Assam and India.”
The Minister noted that India has successfully inscribed 13 World Heritage Properties in the last decade, elevating its position to 6th globally for the most World Heritage Properties. This recognition underscores New India’s dedication to showcasing Bharat’s heritage on the world stage.
Shekhawat emphasized that the inclusion of Moidams in the UNESCO World Heritage List is a testament to their outstanding universal value. The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) highlighted the Moidams’ exceptional representation of a cultural tradition and significant stages in human history. This acknowledgement reflects the efforts of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Assam government in preserving these historic treasures.
The Minister also stressed the importance of promoting the preservation of such monuments, which are abundant in India. The recognition of Moidams as a UNESCO World Heritage Site serves as a reminder of the need to conserve our cultural heritage for future generations. By visiting and supporting these sites, we contribute to their preservation and the broader narrative of India’s rich and diverse history, he added.
