Assam's royal burial mounds now included in UNESCO's World Heritage List
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Historic recognition to Assam's heritage
The 700-year-old burial mound system of the Ahom dynasty in Assam 'Charaideo Moidam' has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, becoming India's 43rd World Heritage Site. The announcement was made during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee in Delhi.
Comparison with Egyptian pyramids
Like the Egyptian pyramids, the Moidams are earthen burial mounds for the Ahom royal family. The Ahoms adopted Hindu cremation practices in the 18th century, burying the cremated bones and ashes in these mounds.
Tourist attractions and cultural significance
Charaideo Moidam is now a major tourist destination and symbolizes the deep spiritual beliefs and architectural prowess of the Tai-Ahom community of Assam. The site is the first site in Northeast India to receive recognition in the cultural category.
Official nomination and conservation
Designated as India's official entry in 2023, 90 of the 386 Moidams at Charaideo are considered the best preserved and most complete examples of this tradition.
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