The contention that empire building is more about consolidation of power rather than the mere expansion of territorial frontiers is exemplified in the case of the Ahoms. It is probably true that at no point of their history did they display a singular obsession with frontier expansion without commensurate attempts at consolidation and proper administration. Normally, all areas under their control were placed under a system that exercised a modicum of administrative control and uniformity that extended to the remotest regions of the kingdom. But, at the same time, incorporation of newer regions also brought with it the prospect of intercourse with different cultures and technology. It is to the credit of the Ahoms that they kept themselves open to new ideas and technology. The resilience and strength of the Ahom kingdom can be explained in terms of its ability to incorporate new ideas and technology that it came across. In addition, there were also occasions when the knowledge base of the kingdom was sought to be expanded by inviting experts from different fields. Interestingly, these specialists were drawn from different parts of the subcontinent, be it Kanauj, Bengal or Burma. In the course of time, they were assimilated into the Assamese fold and their knowledge became integral to the Ahom kingdom! In this regard, the sixteenth century probably marks a distinct stage in the evolution of the Ahom state. It was during this time that the Ahom state, after gradual consolidation, was beginning to expand and incorporate newer areas within its frontiers.