The Harappan economy is characterized as urban because its major centers were sophisticated cities supported by trade and craft. While agriculture was the backbone, the civilization is defined by its urbanization and external trade networks.
13972
Which of these deities or figures was not part of the religious worship in the Indus Valley Civilization?
The concept of the Trimurti (Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh) is a later development in Hinduism. The Indus people worshipped the Mother Goddess, a Proto-Shiva (Pashupati), and elements of nature like trees and animals.
13973
Which distinct metal was notably absent from the archaeological findings of the Harappan civilization?
The Harappan people utilized gold, silver, and copper extensively, but they did not have knowledge of iron. The Iron Age in the Indian subcontinent began much later, during the Vedic period.
13974
To which historical epoch does the flourishing period of the Indus Valley Civilization belong?
The civilization flourished during the Chalcolithic (Copper-Stone) age and the Bronze Age. This period is characterized by the use of copper and bronze for tools and weapons, succeeding the Neolithic era.
13975
Following the partition of India, which Indian state has yielded the highest number of Harappan sites?
Post-1947, extensive archaeological surveys in India discovered that Gujarat contains the largest concentration of Harappan settlements. notable sites include Lothal, Dholavira, and Rangpur.
13976
What is considered the primary factor that led to the eventual decline of the Harappan Civilization?
While there are various theories regarding the decline—such as Aryan invasion, tectonic shifts, or ecological changes—no single factor is definitely known. Excavations suggest a gradual decline between 1800 BC and 1700 BC rather than a sudden end.
13977
Excavations at Mohenjo-daro have revealed approximately how many distinct layers of settlement?
Archaeologists have identified seven distinct layers of inhabitation at Mohenjo-daro. These layers indicate that the city was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, likely due to recurring flooding from the Indus River.
13978
Which specific feature allowed the Harappan Civilization to demonstrate a level of advancement superior to contemporary civilizations like Sumer and Elam?
The Harappan culture is renowned for its immaculate town planning, which distinguishes it from other ancient civilizations. The cities were designed with a grid system, organized drainage, granaries, and structured residential areas, reflecting the work of brilliant architectural engineering.
13979
Which domesticated animal is notably absent from the terracotta figurines of the Indus Civilization?
Terracotta figurines excavated from Harappan sites frequently depict oxen, buffaloes, pigs, goats, sheep, and humped bulls. However, the cow is notably absent from this art form. The cow became a central figure of importance later during the Vedic culture.
13980
Which Harappan site is credited with having the most impressive and scientific drainage system?
The drainage system of Mohenjo-daro is considered the most elaborate and advanced of antiquity. It featured covered brick drains, soak pits, and manholes, reflecting a municipal focus on hygiene that was unmatched by any other contemporary civilization.
