7, July 2025

Urbanization in Assam During the Early Tungkhungia Period (1680–1780)

Author(s): Dipak Kalita

Authors Affiliations:

WEST GUWAHATI COLLEGE OF EDUCATION,

TEMPLEGHAT, PANDU, GUWAHATI-12, ASSAM

DOIs:10.2017/IJRCS/202507005     |     Paper ID: IJRCS202507005


Abstract
Keywords
Cite this Article/Paper as
References

This research delves into the evolution of urbanization in Assam during the early Tungkhungia period (1680–1780), with particular emphasis on the dynamic reign of King Rudra Singha. In response to continued Mughal incursions, the Ahom kingdom not only defended its frontiers but also initiated significant cultural and urban reforms. The development of Rangpur as a meticulously planned capital highlights a shift toward centralized governance and architectural innovation. Encounters with the Mughals introduced novel technologies, design elements, and cultural practices, resulting in a blend of indigenous and external influences across urban life. Economically, this era saw the introduction of coinage, expansion of trade networks, and formalization of market systems. Diplomatic outreach to neighboring states such as Tripura and Bengal marked the rise of a cosmopolitan political culture. The diversification of urban populations—with the settlement of craftsmen, merchants, and musicians—reflected changing occupational dynamics. Urban spaces also functioned as centers of administration and military strategy, supported by surplus agrarian production. Additionally, the promotion of Sakta Hinduism and investment in religious infrastructure played a vital role in shaping the spiritual and cultural landscape of emerging urban centers. This study concludes that the early Tungkhungia period represents a transformative era in pre-colonial Assam, where political consolidation, economic innovation, and cultural assimilation coalesced to define a distinct urban experience.

Ahom Kingdom, Rudra Singha, Tungkhungia Period, Urbanization, Rangpur City, Mughal Influence, Trade and Economy, Religious Architecture

Dipak Kalita (2025); Urbanization in Assam During the Early Tungkhungia Period (1680–1780), International Journal of Research Culture Society,    ISSN(O): 2456-6683,  Volume – 9,   Issue –  7,  Pp.28-32.       Available on – https://ijrcs.org/

  1. Barua, B. K. (1951). A cultural history of Assam: Early period. Guwahati: Lawyer’s Book Stall.
  2. Guha, A. (1983). Medieval and early colonial Assam: Society, polity, economy. New Delhi: Tulika Books.
  3. Gogoi, P. (1968). The Tai and the Tai kingdoms. Guwahati: Gauhati University.
  4. Nath, J. G. (2002). Land and people of early Assam. Guwahati: DVS Publishers.
  5. Neog, M. (1986). Religious developments in North East India. Delhi: Munshiram Manoharlal.
  6. Parwez, I. H. (2018). History of Assam: From the pre-historic period to the twentieth century. New Delhi: Kalpaz Publications.
  7. Saikia, Y. (2004). Fragmented memories: Struggling to be Tai-Ahom in India. Durham, NC: Duke University Press.
  8. British Library Archives and Government Records. London: The British Library.

Download Full Paper

Download PDF No. of Downloads:20 | No. of Views: 118