top of page
Writer's pictureLUXE Exclusive

TAI-Ahom: The torchbearers of Ahom Dynasty and Assamese ethnicity


The Tai Ahom people are an ethnic group native to the northeastern region of India, primarily in the state of Assam. They have a rich history and culture that dates back over six centuries. They are believed to have originated from the region that is now known as Yunnan province in China and migrated to what is now Assam in the 13th century under the leadership of Sukaphaa, who is considered the founder of the Ahom dynasty. The Ahom dynasty ruled over Assam for over six centuries, from 1228 AD to 1826 AD. The Tai Ahom people have a unique culture and language, and they have made significant contributions to the cultural and religious landscape of Assam. They are known for their military powers and were able to conquer many neighboring kingdoms in Assam. Today, the Tai-Ahom people continue to celebrate and preserve their cultural heritage. They also made significant contributions to the cultural and religious landscape of the region. The Ahom dynasty was known for its patronage of the Vaishnavite sect of Hinduism, which had a significant impact on the culture of Assam.

Tai Ahom also known as তাই আহোম of states of Assam and Arunachal-Pradesh. They are the admixed descendants of the Tai people who reached the Brahmaputra valley of Assam in 1228 and the local indigenous people who joined them over the course of history. Sukaphaa, the leader of the Tai group and his 9000 followers established the Ahom kingdom (1228–1826 CE), which controlled much of the Brahmaputra Valley in modern Assam until 1826.


Culture of the Tai-Ahom

The Tai-Ahom people have a rich cultural heritage that is still celebrated and preserved today. Here are some of the key aspects of Tai-Ahom culture:


Language: The Tai-Ahom people speak a language called Ahom, which is a Tai-Kadai language. The language has its own script, which is called Tai Ahom script.

Festivals: The Tai-Ahom people celebrate many festivals throughout the year. The most important festival is Bihu, which is celebrated in April and marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year. Another important festival is Me-Dam-Me-Phi, which is a festival of ancestor worship.

Me-Dam-Me-Phi Festival tai ahom/Luxe Magazine

Cuisine: The Tai-Ahom people have a unique cuisine that is a blend of Assamese and Tai cuisine. Some of the popular dishes include pitha, a type of rice cake, and fish curry.


Clothing: The traditional clothing of the Tai-Ahom people is called mekhela chador, which is a two-piece garment consisting of a skirt and a shawl. The men wear dhoti and kurta.


Music and Dance: The Tai-Ahom people have their own unique music and dance forms. The most popular dance form is called the Bihu dance, which is performed during the Bihu festival.


Conclusion

The Tai-Ahom people have a rich and fascinating history and culture. They have made significant contributions to the cultural and religious landscape of Assam and continue to celebrate and preserve their cultural heritage today. If you ever get the chance to visit Assam, be sure to explore the rich history and culture of the Tai Ahom people.




Comments


bottom of page