The Forgotten Champion is the 12th poetry collection by Arbind Kumar Choudhary, a poet who has earned the title “Phrasal King” in Indian English poetry. Known for his profound insight into history and culture, this work offers an evocative tribute to a legendary figure from Indian history—Veer Lachit Borphukan. Choudhary’s ability to weave intricate language with historical reverence has resulted in a collection that is both stirring and thought-provoking.
Overview of the Book
The Forgotten Champion takes readers through the life and heroic deeds of Veer Lachit Borphukan, a warrior who is widely revered for his leadership in the Battle of Saraighat against the Mughal forces in the 17th century. This book is a celebration of his selflessness and valor in defending the kingdom of Assam from Mughal encroachment. While Veer Lachit is a celebrated figure in Assamese history, his name often remains less known in the broader Indian context. In this collection, Choudhary brings to light the heroism and sacrifice of Lachit Borphukan, comparing him to other iconic warriors like Maharana Pratap, Shivaji, and Veer Konwar Singh.
Themes and Structure
The primary theme of The Forgotten Champion is sacrifice—the sacrifice of a true patriot who placed his country’s well-being above his personal life. Choudhary skillfully captures the deep emotional landscape of heroism, exploring how sacrifice and loyalty to the nation can transcend time and space. The poems also delve into the concept of leadership, where the responsibility of protecting one’s people comes with immense personal cost. In these verses, Choudhary paints Borphukan not just as a military leader, but as a symbol of resilience and an embodiment of the indomitable spirit of Assam.
Through his lyrical exploration of Lachit’s story, Choudhary attempts to fill a gap in Indian historical poetry. While many poets have written about well-known national figures, Borphukan’s saga often finds little room in mainstream narratives. By highlighting his struggles, achievements, and ultimate sacrifice, Choudhary raises awareness of this unsung hero, urging readers to reflect on the unheralded sacrifices that form the foundation of India’s rich history.
The structure of the collection is dynamic, with each poem capturing a different facet of Veer Lachit Borphukan’s life and legacy. The poems are not only historical in nature but also philosophical, probing deeper questions of what it means to fight for one’s people and land, often with personal cost. The themes of sacrifice, love for one’s country, and the burden of leadership resonate powerfully throughout the collection.
Style and Language
Arbind Kumar Choudhary’s writing style is elegant, yet accessible. As an established poet with a reputation for emotional depth, his work in The Forgotten Champion shines through in his careful use of metaphor, simile, and rich imagery. His comparisons of Veer Lachit to other great warriors like Maharana Pratap, Shivaji, and Veer Konwar Singh elevate his subject to the pantheon of the nation’s greatest heroes. In doing so, Choudhary urges readers to see Lachit as a figure whose legacy deserves to be celebrated nationwide.
Choudhary’s language is highly evocative, and he has a gift for creating vivid imagery that brings historical moments to life. The poet paints vivid pictures of the battlefields, the tension between the Mughals and the Assamese, and the emotional and physical toll on Lachit. Through his verses, he imbues historical events with a profound sense of empathy, making the past feel alive and relevant. The poems are not just historical accounts; they are emotional journeys that make readers feel the weight of Lachit’s sacrifice.
Thematic Depth
Choudhary’s choice to focus on Veer Lachit Borphukan is particularly significant because it shines a light on a warrior whose legacy often goes unnoticed outside Assam. His courage and determination in the face of overwhelming odds are central to understanding the broader context of India’s fight against foreign invaders. The poet’s work reminds readers that India’s rich and diverse history is filled with lesser-known figures who made monumental contributions to the country’s preservation and sovereignty.
Another layer of depth in the collection comes from Choudhary’s nuanced treatment of patriotism. His portrayal of Lachit Borphukan goes beyond the glorification of war and battle. The poet underscores the emotional and psychological toll that comes with making difficult choices for the greater good, as seen in the sacrifices that Lachit made not only in battle but in his personal life. This complexity adds richness to the narrative, making Lachit’s journey one of not just bravery, but emotional conflict and internal turmoil.
Historical Context
For readers unfamiliar with the history of Veer Lachit Borphukan, Choudhary provides an insightful lens through which to understand the significance of his actions. The Battle of Saraighat, where Lachit famously led the Ahom army to victory against the Mughal forces, is a defining moment in Assamese and Indian history. The battle is marked by Lachit’s exceptional leadership, tactical brilliance, and his ultimate sacrifice—his declining health during the battle was no obstacle to his determination to defeat the enemy. Choudhary brings this historical event to life with poignant reflections on what it means to protect one’s culture, people, and land.
Conclusion
The Forgotten Champion is a remarkable poetry collection that pays tribute to an unsung hero of India’s history. Arbind Kumar Choudhary’s eloquent and evocative language captures the heroism, sacrifice, and patriotism of Veer Lachit Borphukan in ways that will resonate with readers long after they finish reading. This book does not merely commemorate a historical figure; it revives his legacy, urging readers to acknowledge the many forgotten champions who have shaped the nation’s history.
In The Forgotten Champion, Arbind Kumar Choudhary has given voice to a hero who deserves to be remembered. The collection is a must-read not only for poetry enthusiasts but for anyone interested in exploring India’s rich history, the sacrifices of its unsung warriors, and the timeless themes of love, loyalty, and patriotism.
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