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The Harappan Civilization An Overview of Ancient Urban Culture in the Indus Valley
Introduction • The Harappan Civilization (Indus Valley Civilization) thrived between approximately 3300 BCE to 1300 BCE in present-day Pakistan and northwest India.
Geographic Location • Located in the fertile Indus River Valley, the civilization benefited from agricultural productivity and trade routes. Major cities included Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro.
Major Cities • Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro served as twin capitals. Known for advanced urban planning, including grid patterns, residential areas, and advanced drainage systems.
Architecture and Urban Planning • Features include public baths, granaries, residential complexes, and marketplaces, showcasing sophisticated engineering and city planning.
Economy and Trade • Agriculture was a key economic activity with crops like wheat and barley. Evidence suggests trade with Mesopotamia. Artifacts include seals, pottery, and beads.
Social Structure • Archaeological evidence indicates a likely social hierarchy. Lifestyle included diverse diets, social gatherings, and cultural practices.
Art and Culture • Artifacts like small figurines, pottery, seals, and jewelry reflect a rich artistic tradition and cultural expression.
Religion and Beliefs • Evidence suggests worship of deities and early forms of Hindu practices. The Great Bath at Mohenjo-Daro might have had ritualistic significance.
Writing and Language • The Indus script, a pictographic language, remains undeciphered but hints at a complex communication system.
Decline and Theories • Theories on decline include environmental changes, flooding, river shifts, or invasions. The civilization’s influence persisted in South Asian cultural heritage.
Summary and Conclusion • The Harappan Civilization was remarkable for its urban planning, social structure, and trade. Its legacy shaped later cultures in the Indian subcontinent.
References • For further reading: books, articles, and reputable websites on the Indus Valley Civilization.