Brahmaputra by V. Vijayendra Prasad

Author:V. Vijayendra Prasad
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: null
Publisher: HarperCollins India
Published: 2023-04-15T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 7

At the Ahom palace the next morning, the court was in progress. Himabhas was chairing the session, and besides Borphukan, Buragohain, Borgohain and Lachit, all the princes were present. The Mughal advisors were in attendance as well, silently observing the proceedings.

Himabhas said, ‘Today is an important day as we are here to take a decision regarding the selection of our new Swargadeo. Let me first apprise you about the status of the shields. All the nominated shield bearers of the princes have killed the chosen animals and presented the hides, except for Lachit.’

Heads turned to first look at Chakradhwaj and then at Lachit. A few princes couldn’t stop smirking. If Chakradhwaj were disqualified, their chances of winning the competition and ascending the throne would become significantly higher.

The prime minister continued, ‘Chakradhwaj, do you wish to select someone else in Lachit’s place? We can give you one more day.’

Chakradhwaj said, ‘No, I don’t want anyone else.’ He turned towards Lachit and asked, ‘Do you want to say something?’

Lachit stood up, his face grave as he spoke in a deep voice, ‘Prime Minster Himabhas, while it is right that I have not killed an animal, I would like to offer myself as Prince Chakradhwaj’s shield, so that he can place his feet on my shoulders and fight.’

A few princes shot up to their feet and said, ‘This is illegal, this can’t be allowed.’

‘Be quiet,’ Himabhas said, his voice raised.

The princes sat down.

Lachit continued, ‘I beg to differ with the princes. Instead of an animal’s skin, I’m offering my own skin for the protection of the prince. How can this be illegal?’

Himabhas thought for a few seconds before speaking, ‘I think Lachit is right, but let me consult the leaders of the court. Borphukan, let’s begin with you. What do you think?’

Borphukan first looked at Lachit before facing Himabhas as he said, ‘Lachit is my son, but, as the Borphukan, I’ll remain unbiased. In my opinion, Lachit’s proposal is different, but it is not illegal.’

‘Gohains?’

Both of them, one after the other, said that what Lachit had proposed was not illegal.

‘It’s settled then. The competition will be held at the Rang Ghar after a month. May the best one win.’

The princes looked at the Prime Minster and, although they didn’t say anything, their expressions betrayed what was in their minds. Then, a few of them turned to look at the Mughal advisors. The elders of the court missed noticing the silent communication that passed between them.

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