Bora (surname)

Bora, also spelled Borah or Barah, is often an Assamese surname, which originates from a military title of the Ahom Kingdom.

Historical usage

Originally, the Bora surname was used as a military position/title in the Sadiya kingdom held by individuals from the Buruk clan[1]. Later, after the introduction of the Paik system in the Ahom Kingdom of medieval Assam, the title was re-introduced. A 'Bora was the commanding officer of 20 such paiks. The appointment of a Bora was the responsibility of his Phukan (commander of 6000 paiks) or Rajkhowa (governor of a territory who could command 2000 to 3000 paiks). The paiks had the right to reject a Bora and request another officer of their choice. Appointments were made irrespective of the paik's religion or ethnicity.[2]

Contemporary usage

Over the years, the usage of this title has ceased to be a professional or military title. The surname is now common to Hindus in Assam. Among the Hindus, the surname is mostly written by Chutia, Kalita, Koch and some Kachari groups.

Notable people

Notable people with the surname include:

See also

References

  1. ↑ Dr. Swarnalata Baruah(2004), Chutiya Jaatir Buranji, Page 145, Surnames like Bora, Saikia, Kataki, Tamuli,etc. were found in Chutia kingdom. It is clearly stated in the Deodhai Buranji that when Ahom king Suhungmung attacked the Chutia kingdom on the banks of Dihing river, the Chutia army was led by one Manik Chandra Baruah. The surname "Neog" was probably derived from the Chutia "Nayak" whose duty was the same. Deori folklores also mention the myths behind the creation of each of these titles. For instance, "Bora" was said to be derived from the "Buruk" clan and acted either as a military official or a temple guard...
  2. ↑ Paik System of Ahom kingdom
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