Battle of Saraighat (1671)

In 1671, Ahom forces under Lachit Borphukan defeated the Mughal navy led by Ram Singh I at Saraighat on the Brahmaputra. This naval victory ended the Mughal siege of Guwahati and marked the final major Mughal attempt to extend their empire into Assam.

Episodes

Background and detail

Strategic Context. Following the occupation of their capital and harsh treaty terms, the Ahoms prepared to counter Mughal advances. Lachit Borphukan organized an expeditionary army and selected Guwahati as the defensive site because its hilly terrain neutralized Mughal cavalry advantages and forced reliance on their weaker naval assets.

Naval Engagement. The decisive battle occurred in mid-March 1671. Although Ahom land forces initially retreated, Lachit coordinated a counterattack when Mughal boats attempted to land. The Ahoms exploited Mughal naval weaknesses, using guerrilla tactics and intelligence to defeat the larger force and push them west beyond the Manas river.

Outcome and Legacy. Ram Singh withdrew from Kamrup in April 1671, ending the immediate Mughal threat. This victory was the last major Mughal attempt to extend their empire into Assam. Although Guwahati was briefly lost later, the Ahoms maintained control after the Battle of Itakhuli in 1682.

People involved

Sources

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