New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday while addressing the closing ceremony of year-long celebrations of the 400th birth anniversary of Lachit Barphukan said that brave sons and daughters from every corner of the country fought oppressors during the freedom struggle but their history was intentionally suppressed. Lachit Barphukan was a 17th century general of the army of Ahom Kingdom in Assam who defeated the Mughals and successfully halted their ever expanding ambitions under Aurangzeb.
"India's history is full of valour. Unfortunately even after Independence history is written in a manner it was taught in the colonial era," PM Modi said adding that the country is now filled with pride for its heritage leaving behind mindset of slavery, he said adding that India is not only celebrating its cultural diversity but also remembering its heroes.
"We received the opportunity to celebrate the 400th birth anniversary celebration of Lachit Barphukan at a time when the country is celebrating the Amrit Kaal of its independence. This historic occasion is a proud chapter in the history of Assam," PM Modi said speaking at the event adding that India has now broken the shackles of colonialism and is moving forward, celebrating our heritage and remembering our heroes with pride. PM Modi also recalled how Lachit Barphukan had kept national interest above blood relations and did not hesitate to punish his close relative. Lachit Barphukan's life inspires us to rise above dynasty and think about the country. He had said that no relationship is bigger than the country, Modi said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was echoing Union Home Minister Amit Shah's address at the plenary session of Lachit Barphukan's birth anniversary. Shah said, "I often come across complaints that our history has been distorted and tampered with. These allegations could be true. But who stops it from being corrected now? Who stops us from writing the correct history now," he said. Shah had even gone a step further and said that no one can stop us from rewriting of history and free it from "distortions". He urged academicians to research and write about 30 great Indian empires and 300 warriors who showed exemplary valour to fight for the motherland.
