The legendary Ahom commander Lachit Borphukan, who led the forces of Assam in a historic victory over the Mughals in the Battle of Saraighat, may have his life brought to the big screen. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed that filmmaker Aditya Dhar was approached to direct a big Hindi biopic on the legendary military leader.Speaking in a Facebook Live session, the Prime Minister said the government wants to introduce the unique story of Lachit Borphukan to audiences across India and the world.
Who is Lachit Borphukan?
Lachit Borphukan is revered as one of the greatest military commanders of Assam and is remembered as a symbol of courage, patriotism and selfless leadership. Born on November 24, 1622, in Charaideo, he was the youngest son of Momai Tamuli Borbarua, the commander-in-chief of the Ahom army under King Pratap Singha, and Kunti Moran. Growing up during the long Mughal-Ahom conflicts, Lachit received training in military strategy, administration, economics, Ahom scriptures and religion, preparing him for a life of public service.He rose steadily through several important administrative and military positions, serving as Hanstidhara Tamuli, Ghura Baruah, Shimaluguria Phukan, and Dulakasharia Baruah, before King Chakradhwaj Singha appointed him Borphukan, or commander-in-chief of the Ahom army. Tasked with recapturing Guwahati from the Mughals, the king presented him with a ceremonial sword (Hengdang) as a mark of distinction.Lachit earned lasting recognition for leading the Ahom forces to victory over the Mughal Empire in the historic Battle of Saraighat in 1671, one of the most important military victories in Indian history. Facing a larger Mughal force led by Raja Ram Singh I, sent by Emperor Aurangzeb, Lachit relied on guerrilla tactics and his deep understanding of the Brahmaputra River to overcome the numerical disadvantage.Despite battling serious illness during the decisive stages of the campaign, Lachit personally boarded a battleship when some of his soldiers began to retreat. According to historical accounts, he rallied his troops by declaring that he would rather die doing his duty to his king and country than leave the battlefield. Encouraged by his bravery, the Ahom army regrouped and forced the Mughal forces to retreat, effectively halting Mughal expansion into Assam.Lachit Borphukan died about a year after the victory due to natural causes. His memorial, Lachit Maidam, was built in 1672 at Hoolungapara near Jorhat. His leadership and sacrifice continue to inspire generations, and Lachit Divas is celebrated every year on November 24 across Assam to commemorate his birth, heroism and victory at Saraighat. His legacy is also honored in the country through the Lachit Borphukan Gold Medal, which is awarded annually by the National Defense Academy to a cadet who exhibits exceptional leadership qualities, reflecting the values for which the legendary commander is remembered.
Aditya Dhar approached for: Lachit Borphukan biopic
Sharing details about the proposed film, Himanta Biswa Sarma said that discussions with Aditya Dhar have started.Talking about Dhar’s recent blockbuster, he said, “The film Dhurandhar was a big hit.The Chief Minister said that the government wants to make a big film in Hindi that introduces the story of Lachit Borphukan to the world audience.“I think if our government can make a film on Lachit Borphukan, we can introduce his heroes to the whole world. And, it will be a special achievement for us,” he said.
Sarma also revealed that Dhar is expected to visit Assam in August to hold further discussions on the project.However, he clarified that the biopic will go ahead even if Dhar is ultimately unable to direct it.“If Aditya Dhar is not able to direct the film, we will approach other directors. The aim is to ensure that a big biopic of Lachit Borphukan is made,” he said.The proposed project is part of a larger initiative by the Assam government to promote the state’s history through cinema. In its 2026-27 Budget, the government announced plans to support films based on the life of Lachit Borphukan and freedom fighter Kushal Konwar.So far, Aditya Dhar has not publicly responded to the Prime Minister’s announcement or confirmed his next directorial venture after the success of Dhurandhar. The Revenge.