King Prithu of Assam-13th Century Protector of Kamrup

More recently the state of Assam has rekindled an interest in Maharaja Prithu, who ruled in the 13th century, and who is remembered as having resisted the Turko-Afghan invasions of the country. His increasing prominence as a representative of the Assamee defence against Indian civilisation is shown in the decision of the Assam Cabinet to name a large flyover in Guwahati in his honour.

Historical Background

Prithu is supposed to have governed Kamrup in the early 1200s CE. It is said that he was able to withstand the invasion of Bakhtiyar Khilji circa 1206 CE, a military that is otherwise known to have demolished Nalanda University. Although the conquests of Khilji along the eastern borders are well recorded, those of the conquests at Assam are limited and sporadic.

Sources and Evidence

Prithu is mostly referred to by the Persian historical text Tabaqat-i-Nasiri and a rock inscription by North Guwahati which details a ruler named "Bartu" or Prithu who defeated Khilji forces. Other researchers believe that he might be a local chief rather than a great king. Forts and battle fields associated with him are also known in oral tradition and the regional gazetteers, although archaeological work is scarce.

Scholarship and Narratives

Recent literature, including a 2021 book by historian Raktim Patar, describes Prithu as an epic champion of the culture and sovereignty of Assam. This attitude, backed by seminars and cultural organisations, aims at building his image in association with Lachit Borphukan, the legendary 17th-century general who triumphed over the Mughals.

Ongoing Debate

Historians are still suspicious about the exact status of Prithu. Persian title rae records can refer to a smaller ruler in Assam at a politically disjointed time in the history of the state. There are no complete local sources of the 12th-13th century, so it is hard to draw concrete conclusions.

Significance

The legacy of Prithu is the defense of Assam as a frontier area against early Islamic invasions. His rediscovery highlights regional pride and its attempt to revive the forgotten features of Indian history. Although there has been scholarly controversy, the story of Prithu has enhanced cultural identity in Assam and contributed to the richness of the Indian medieval historical narrative.