Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has approached filmmaker Aditya Dhar to direct a biopic on the legendary general Lachit Borphukan, aiming to showcase his legacy.
New Delhi, India Jul 18, 2026 ALN: The success of the Dhurandhar franchise may have opened the door to Aditya Dhar's next big venture. The filmmaker could soon bring the story of legendary Ahom general Lachit Borphukan to the big screen. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has revealed that he has approached the director to direct the ambitious project.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed during a Facebook Live session that he has already reached out to Aditya Dhar to discuss the ambitious project. Praising the filmmaker's recent success, he said, “The movie Dhurandhar was a big hit. Aditya Dhar was the director and he is among the best known names among his contemporaries,” the CM stated.
Sharing why he wants Aditya Dhar on board, Himanta said he believes a large-scale Hindi film has the potential to introduce Lachit Borphukan's extraordinary legacy to audiences around the world. “I think if our government can produce a film on Lachit Borphukan, we can make his heroics known globally. And, it will be a special achievement for us,” he asserted.
The Chief Minister added that his initial conversation with Aditya was positive and that the director is expected to visit Assam in August to take the discussions forward and explore the project's creative vision.
At the same time, he made it clear that the film will move ahead regardless of who directs it. “If Aditya Dhar is unable to direct the film, we will approach other directors. The objective is to ensure that a grand biopic on Lachit Borphukan is made.”
The proposed biopic is part of the Assam government's broader effort to bring the state's historical heroes to the big screen. In its 2026-27 budget, presented on July 10, the government announced plans to back films based on the lives of Lachit Borphukan and freedom fighter Kushal Konwar.
Lachit Borphukan was one of the greatest military commanders in Assamese history and remains a towering symbol of bravery and leadership. As the commander of the Ahom kingdom's army, he is best remembered for leading his forces to victory over the Mughal Empire in the Battle of Saraighat in 1671, a defining moment that protected Assam from Mughal rule.
What continues to make Lachit stand out centuries later is not just his military skill, but his unwavering commitment to his people. Even while battling severe illness, he took charge of the battlefield and inspired his soldiers to fight on. His courage, determination, and sense of duty have made him a lasting icon in Assam. Today, his legacy is celebrated every year through Lachit Divas, while his contribution to India's military history continues to be honoured across the country.
The Battle of Saraighat is particularly significant in Indian history, as it marked a turning point in the resistance against Mughal expansion in the northeast. Under Lachit Borphukan's leadership, the Ahom forces employed innovative strategies and utilized their knowledge of the local terrain to outmaneuver the Mughal army, which was better equipped and larger in number. The victory not only preserved the sovereignty of the Ahom kingdom but also fortified the spirit of resistance among the Assamese people.
In addition to his military prowess, Lachit Borphukan is remembered for his strong sense of justice and governance. He was known to prioritize the welfare of his soldiers and the citizens of the Ahom kingdom, often making personal sacrifices for their benefit. His leadership style was characterized by a blend of bravery and compassion, which has endeared him to generations of Assamese people.
The proposed biopic on Lachit Borphukan is part of a larger trend in Indian cinema, where filmmakers are increasingly focusing on historical figures and events. This shift reflects a growing interest in narratives that celebrate cultural heritage and national pride. In recent years, several films have been made that highlight the lives of freedom fighters and historical figures, aiming to educate audiences about their contributions to the nation.
Aditya Dhar is riding high on the success of Dhurandhar and its sequel, Dhurandhar: The Revenge. The films have been well-received by audiences, showcasing Dhar's ability to blend action and storytelling effectively. His work has not only garnered commercial success but has also been recognized for its artistic merit, making him one of the prominent filmmakers in contemporary Indian cinema.
While fans are eagerly waiting to know what he takes up next, the filmmaker has remained tight-lipped about his next project. The invitation to direct the biopic on Lachit Borphukan could represent a significant shift in his career, taking him into the realm of historical drama, which often requires a different storytelling approach compared to the action-centric narratives he is known for.
The collaboration between the Assam government and a filmmaker of Dhar's stature could also have broader implications for the regional film industry. It may pave the way for more investments in Assamese cinema and encourage other filmmakers to explore local stories and historical figures. This could help in preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Assam while also providing a platform for local talent to shine on a national scale.
In conclusion, the biopic on Lachit Borphukan is not just a film project; it represents an opportunity to honor a historical figure who played a crucial role in shaping the identity of Assam and its people. It also reflects the Assam government's commitment to cultural preservation and education through cinema. As discussions progress and the project moves forward, it will be interesting to see how Aditya Dhar's vision aligns with the aspirations of the state to bring this extraordinary story to a wider audience.
The importance of such a biopic extends beyond mere entertainment; it serves as a vital educational tool that can inform younger generations about their heritage. Films like this can foster a sense of pride and identity among the Assamese people, encouraging them to engage more deeply with their history. Furthermore, the portrayal of Lachit Borphukan's life and achievements on the big screen can inspire contemporary audiences, illustrating values such as courage, resilience, and commitment to one's community.
Moreover, the project may also attract attention from historians and scholars who are interested in the accuracy of the depiction of historical events and figures. This scrutiny can lead to a richer understanding of the past and encourage further research into the Ahom dynasty and its legacy. The collaboration between filmmakers and historians can ensure that the narrative is both compelling and educational, striking a balance between artistic expression and historical integrity.
As the film industry increasingly embraces stories rooted in history, the Lachit Borphukan biopic stands to contribute significantly to this trend, potentially inspiring similar projects that delve into the lives of other unsung heroes from various regions of India. By spotlighting regional histories, filmmakers can help create a more inclusive narrative that recognizes the diverse contributions to India's collective past.
Ultimately, the invitation extended to Aditya Dhar is not merely about a film; it is about reviving and celebrating a legacy that has shaped the cultural landscape of Assam. The biopic has the potential to become a landmark project that not only entertains but also educates and inspires, ensuring that Lachit Borphukan's story is told for generations to come.
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