Jerenga Pothar: A Notable Chapter Of Ahom History

• 23 Jan 2021

• PM Narendra Modi addressed an event at Sivasagar's Jerenga Pothar, an open field where the legendary Joymati sacrificed her life for her husband in the 17th century.
• Formerly known as Rangpur, Sivasagar was the seat of the powerful Ahom dynasty, who ruled Assam for six centuries (1228-1826).
• From 1671 to 1681, the Ahom kingdom was undergoing a period of tumult under ‘ministerial superiority’, meaning the nobles and prime ministers were more important than the king, who were often puppets.
• It was at this time that Sulikhpaa— also known as ‘Lora Raja’ or the boy prince — and his prime minister Laluksala Borphukan were tracking down, and killing, possible heirs, to ensure a clear passage to the throne.
• Prince Godapani, Joymoti’s husband, was next in line, but he escaped to the Naga Hills before Lora Raja and his men could capture him.
• It was then that Lora Raja sought out Godapani’s wife Joymoti, hoping she would tell him about his whereabouts “However, despite being tortured for days, tied to a thorny plant, in an open field, Joymoti refused to divulge any information. She died, sacrificing her life for her husband, who ultimately became the king, ushering in an era of stability and peace in Assam.