Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has breathed new life into the historical figure of 17th-century general Lachit Borphukan, and now his story is set to be immortalized in a novel titled ‘Brahmaputra: The Ahom Son Rises (Book 1)’ by renowned screenwriter, film director, and Rajya Sabha MP Vijayendra Prasad, who is best known for his work on the blockbuster film ‘RRR’ and happens to be the father of director S.S. Rajamouli. This exciting collaboration also involves naval officer-turned-espionage fiction writer Kulpreet Yadav, and the book is scheduled to be published by HarperCollins Publishers India on May 30.
‘Brahmaputra: The Ahom Son Rises (Book 1)’ weaves together elements of action and romance as it delves into the tale of Lachit, who falls in love with Princess Padmini, the daughter of Swargadeo Jayadhwaj Singha, the ruler of the Ahom kingdom. However, their romance is discovered by the king, who banishes Lachit from the capital city, Jorhat.
Shortly after, Aurangzeb’s forces launch an attack on the Ahom capital, leading the king to sign a peace treaty that relinquishes partial control of the kingdom to the Mughals. Lachit and his loyal friend, Prince Chakradhwaj, find the terms of the treaty to be deeply humiliating.
Their troubles escalate when a prince from a kingdom loyal to the Ahoms deceives other minor rulers and launches an assault on Jorhat. As Lachit and Prince Chakradhwaj defend their capital, the outcome of this battle holds the potential to shape the future of the Ahom kingdom forever.
The central question of the story revolves around whether Lachit, Prince Chakradhwaj, and Princess Padmini can restore the honor of the Ahoms by defeating the rebels and breaking free from the grip of the Mughals. This compelling narrative comes from the accomplished writer behind the critically acclaimed films ‘Baahubali’ and ‘Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi,’ as well as the popular ‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan.’
Kulpreet Yadav, Prasad’s collaborator on the novel, brings his own wealth of experience to the project. A graduate of the Naval Officers’ Academy, Yadav served as an officer for two decades, commanding three ships during his distinguished career. Since retiring from the Indian Coast Guard in 2014, he has authored several books spanning multiple genres, including espionage, military history, and true crime. Currently residing in Mumbai, his latest publication is ‘The Battle of Rezang La’ (Penguin, 2021).
