Indus Valley civilization

Introduction
The Indus Valley Civilization, also known as the Harappan civilization, is one of the ancient world’s most intriguing and enigmatic cultures. Flourishing in the vast river valleys of the Indus and Saraswati (now dried up) rivers, this remarkable civilization emerged around 2600 BCE and thrived for nearly a millennium. In this unique blog, we delve into the origins of the Indus Valley Civilization and explore its main characteristics, shedding light on its advanced urban planning, sophisticated craftsmanship, and mysterious decline. Join us on this captivating journey back in time.

FOUNDER OF CIVILIZATION

This civilization came to notice through archaeological surveys of India as they found fossils, skeletons and statues with other household goods. The inhabitants of these civilizations are linked with other cultures on various grounds, likely:

Kakashkiyai: The people of this community were like Sri Lankans. they used to have the house of limestone.

Equatorial: The people of this kind had very high heads and belonged to the Aryans.

Mongolians: These people were of Mongolian type, long face, short heighten, elongated high and pointed nose. They used to have beards but no moustaches.

Origins of the Indus Valley Civilization
The origins of the Indus Valley Civilization can be traced back to the fertile plains of what is now modern-day Pakistan and northwest India. The civilization emerged from a complex interplay of various factors, including environmental conditions, agricultural practices, and cultural interactions. Scholars believe that a gradual process of urbanization led to the development of distinct urban centers, marking the onset of this sophisticated civilization.

Main Characteristics of the Indus Valley Civilization

1. Indus valley culture demonstrates the significance of animals especially bull, as they were necessary for farming and also had religious significance. People worshiped and sacrificed Bulls and its image was often depicted   on seals and was thought possess to power.
2. The advanced architecture of the Indus river valley contributed to the overall success of the civilization, also in farming and agriculture as complex irrigation canals were built.
3. There is one figure of seal, sitting in a yoga like position that seemed to represent god.
4. Indus valley people made small figure of human   using metal and clay. the figure of dancing girl in bronze show that people liked to dance. the dancing girl wears very less clothes but has lots of bangles in her arms and her hair is tied in plait.
5. The Indus valley people used to make terracotta utensils. These utensils were decorated with dietes, images women figure and geometrical patterns. Mostly the designs have been drawn with black ink on terracotta utensils and smoothed by rubbing further a shining texture is given to the pots and utensils.
6. The female of this period adorned themselves with ornaments, such as nose pins, bangles, earrings, armlets and bracelets etc. Different styles of hairdo were popular among women. Many things of daily use like hairpins, clips and combs have also been found. Beads are also made of terracotta. some gold and silver ornaments have also been found.
7. Male used to wear printed shawl.
8. Even skeletons of some animals such as dog, cow, cat, deer, sheep, and bulls of two types were found and in few places rabbits’ skeletons also found.
9. Types of seals have been found, mainly used for decoration, trading and also had religious significance.
10. A clay cart without wheels were also found.

The Indus Valley Civilization boasted meticulously planned cities, displaying remarkable urban infrastructure. The cities were laid out on a grid system, with well-organized streets and drainage systems. Notable examples include Mohenjo-daro and Harappa, which showcased advanced architectural techniques, public baths, and impressive public structures.

Craftsmanship and Trade:
The Harappans were skilled craftsmen, known for their exquisite pottery, jewelry, seals, and sculptures. They employed advanced techniques, including wheel-made pottery and the use of copper and bronze for metallurgical purposes. The presence of standardized weights and measures suggests a sophisticated system of trade and commerce.

Writing and Seals:
The Indus script, one of the most enduring mysteries of the civilization, was discovered on numerous seals made of materials such as steatite. Although the script has not been deciphered, it attests to the existence of a writing system and administrative practices.

Agricultural Practices:
Agriculture formed the backbone of the Indus Valley Civilization. The civilization’s inhabitants cultivated a variety of crops, including wheat, barley, peas, and cotton. Sophisticated irrigation systems, such as canals and reservoirs, ensured efficient water management for agricultural purposes.

Social Organization:
The society of the Indus Valley Civilization appears to have been characterized by a relatively egalitarian social structure. Evidence suggests the absence of large palaces or monumental structures associated with ruling elites. The presence of well-planned cities and uniformity in house sizes suggests a relatively equitable distribution of resources.

Major Sites of the Indus Valley Civilization

Mohenjo-daro:
Mohenjo-daro, located in present-day Pakistan, was one of the most significant urban centers of the Indus Valley Civilization. It was a bustling city with an extensive urban layout, granaries, public baths, and a remarkable Great Bath complex. The site’s meticulous planning and advanced architecture provide insights into the civilization’s engineering capabilities.

Harappa:
Harappa, situated in modern-day Pakistan, was another prominent city of the Indus Valley Civilization. Excavations have revealed an advanced urban plan, with fortified walls, a citadel, and a well-structured street grid. Intricate pottery, elaborate seal carvings, and a sophisticated drainage system showcase the city’s cultural and technological achievements.

Dholavira:
Dholavira, located in present-day Gujarat, India, is known for its impressive water management systems, including massive reservoirs and an intricate canal network. The city’s layout, with well-defined fortifications and residential areas, reflects the civilization’s urban planning prowess. The presence of a large-scale stadium-like structure hints at possible ceremonial or administrative functions. besides it –

Roop Nagar in Punjab

Lothal in Gujrat

Kalibangan in Rajasthan

Rangpur now in north Bangladesh

Alamgirpur (near Meerut 28 km from Delhi)

Banawali (fatehabad in Haryana)

Some places in U.P

Mysterious Decline and Legacy
The Indus Valley Civilization’s decline remains a subject of debate among scholars. The causes could include natural disasters, climate change, ecological shifts, or social and political upheavals. Regardless of its decline, the civilization left a lasting legacy. Its sophisticated urban planning, craftsmanship, and technological advancements laid the foundation for future civilizations in the Indian subcontinent.

Conclusion
The Indus Valley Civilization stands as a testament to the ingenuity and cultural achievements of an ancient civilization. Its origins in the fertile river valleys, remarkable urban planning, advanced craftsmanship, and mysterious decline continue to captivate researchers and historians. By exploring the main characteristics and major sites of this civilization, we gain valuable insights into their innovative practices and societal organization. The legacy of the Indus Valley Civilization reverberates through time, reminding us of the profound contributions made by early human societies in shaping the world we live in today.