The Mohenjo-daro drainage system was highly sophisticated, featuring covered drains along the main streets, connected to individual houses. This level of urban sanitation was unparalleled in contemporary civilizations.
13622
The craftsmen of the Harappan civilization were unaware of the use of which metal?
The Harappan Civilization existed during the Bronze Age. Iron technology was not developed in the Indian subcontinent until the later Vedic period (roughly after 1000 BC), long after the decline of the Harappan cities.
13623
Which of the following statements accurately reflects a cultural aspect of the Harappan Civilization?
The 'Pashupati' seal, showing a seated figure surrounded by animals (elephant, tiger, rhino, buffalo), indicates the veneration of a 'Lord of Animals' deity, closely linked to the later Hindu god Shiva.
13624
Based on the lack of grand palaces and royal tombs, how is the Harappan social system often characterized?
Unlike the distinct hierarchy seen in Egypt (Pharaohs), the Indus cities show a relatively uniform standard of living and lack obvious royal residences, suggesting a more egalitarian society, perhaps governed by a merchant class or oligarchy.
13625
Archaeological evidence confirms that the Harappans maintained trade relations with which civilization?
Cuneiform records from Mesopotamia refer to trade with 'Meluhha', which is identified as the Indus Valley. Indus seals and weights have been found in Mesopotamian sites like Ur and Kish.
13626
Which type of artifact serves as the primary indicator of the commercial and economic development of the Indus Valley?
Seals were essential for trade. They were pressed into wet clay to tag sacks of goods, ensuring the integrity of the package and identifying the owner. Their widespread discovery validates the civilization's complex commercial network.
13627
The organic connection between the ancient Indus culture and modern Hinduism is best illustrated by the worship of?
The discovery of the 'Proto-Shiva' (Pashupati) seal and numerous terracotta figurines of the Mother Goddess suggests a direct lineage to later Hindu practices of worshipping Shiva and Shakti (female energy).
13628
The seals excavated from Mohenjo-daro share thematic and stylistic similarities with seals from which region?
Harappan seals have been found in Mesopotamian cities (Sumeria), and motifs like a hero fighting two tigers (similar to the Sumerian Gilgamesh epic) appear on Indus seals, indicating strong cultural and trade links.
13629
Which animal motif is most frequently depicted on the steatite seals of the Indus Valley?
The 'Unicorn'—a mythical creature resembling a bull with a single horn—is the most common figure found on Indus seals. It possibly represented a specific clan or governing authority.
13630
Where was the granary at Harappa specifically located?
The granary at Harappa (distinct from the one at Mohenjo-daro) was located on Mound F, close to the river Ravi. This location likely facilitated the transport of grain by boat.