Biography:
Mula Gabharu, also known as Nang Mula, was a remarkable woman who played a significant role in the history of Assam. Born as the daughter of Ahom king Supimphaa, Mula Gabharu grew up in a royal household, surrounded by power and privilege. However, her life took a dramatic turn when she married Borgohain Phrasengmung, the brave warrior and minister of the Ahom kingdom.
In 1532, tragedy struck when Turbak, an invader sent by the Sultan of Bengal, attacked the kingdom. Phrasengmung heard about the deaths of Minister Khunlung and other warriors at the hands of Turbak, and a sense of darkness and impending doom engulfed the land. Sensing the urgency to protect Assam’s freedom from the destruction of the enemy, Mula Gabharu implored her husband to join the war.
Phrasengmung, recognizing his wife’s courage and fearlessness, embraced her words of valor and resolved to fight for the independence of their country. He understood that life and death paled in comparison to the importance of protecting their nation, their son, and their honor. Lighting 101 lamps, a tradition known as Kin Lao, Phrasengmung made a solemn promise to defeat Turbak and secure the future of Assam.
The Ahom soldiers, renowned for their resilience and impervious armor, were a formidable force. Phrasengmung, determined and unwavering, fought without armor, fully embodying the spirit of bravery and sacrifice. For seven grueling days, the battlefield bore witness to the relentless clash between the Ahom warriors and the invading forces.
Tragedy struck when news of Phrasengmung’s untimely demise reached Mula Gabharu. Consumed by grief and driven by a thirst for vengeance, she vowed to avenge her husband’s death. Equipping herself with a Hengdang, a traditional weapon, Mula Gabharu fearlessly entered the fray.
On the fourth day of the battle, amidst the chaos and turmoil, she came face to face with Turbak Khan, the commander responsible for her husband’s murder. Undaunted by Turbak Khan’s reputation as a trained fighter, Nang Mula engaged him in a fierce and courageous duel. However, her opponent proved to be an adversary of formidable skill, and in the end, Mula Gabharu fell valiantly in the Battle of Kachua.
The news of Mula Gabharu’s death reverberated through the ranks of the Ahom soldiers, igniting a renewed determination to avenge their fallen leaders. Under the leadership of Kanseng Borpatro Gohain, the Ahom warriors, fueled by the memory and sacrifice of Mula Gabharu, rallied together and ultimately emerged victorious over Turbak’s forces in the decisive Battle of Mokh.
Mula Gabharu’s legacy lives on to this day, as her bravery and valor continue to inspire generations. In commemoration of her extraordinary courage, the Mulagabharu Girl’s MES School was established in 1987 in Dichow Botua, Sivasagar, Assam, as a tribute to this great warrior. Moreover, on the 29th of May each year, the people of Assam celebrate Mulagabhoru Day, honoring her indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to freedom.
Awards:
– Birangana Mula Gabharu Award, presented annually on Mulagabhoru Day by the Tai Ahom Yuva Parishad (TYPA), recognizes individuals who embody the spirit of courage and resilience exemplified by Mula Gabharu.