Introduction

On 20th September 2024, we marked 100 years since the discovery of the Indus Valley Civilization (IVC), announced by archaeologist Sir John Marshall in 1924. This groundbreaking discovery revealed one of the world’s earliest and most advanced urban civilizations, which spanned over 2,000 sites across 1.5 million sq. km in modern-day India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. The Harappan Civilization, as it is also known, flourished around 2500 BCE along the Indus River and is renowned for its sophisticated urban planning, architectural innovations, and wide-reaching trade networks.

What was the Harappan Civilization?

The Harappan or Indus Valley Civilization was the largest of the four great ancient urban civilizations, alongside Egypt, Mesopotamia, and China. Classified as a Bronze-age civilization due to the discovery of copper-based artefacts, its influence extended over a vast region. The first excavations at Harappa in 1921-22 and Mohenjo-Daro in 1922, led by archaeologists Daya Ram Sahni and Rakhal Das Banerji respectively, laid the foundation for Sir John Marshall’s monumental announcement.

The civilization progressed through three main phases:

• Early phase (3200 BCE – 2600 BCE): Linked to the Hakra Phase, this period saw the emergence of the first Indus script around 3000 BCE.
• Mature phase (2600 BCE – 1900 BCE): By 2600 BCE, Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro became flourishing urban centers.
• Late phase (1900 BCE – 1500 BCE): This marked the civilization’s decline and eventual collapse.

Key Features of the Harappan Civilization

Town Planning 

Harappan cities were meticulously planned with grid-like layouts, featuring large citadels and lower towns. The cities of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro boasted advanced drainage systems and uniformly designed brick houses, complete with courtyards and bathrooms. Granaries were used for large-scale storage of food, and some settlements like Dholavira and Lothal were fortified with walls dividing internal sections.

Agriculture 

Harappan villages, mostly located near fertile floodplains, were highly productive. Crops like wheat, barley, peas, sesame, and mustard were commonly grown, and cotton cultivation was pioneered here. Though rice was rare, millet cultivation was widespread in Gujarat. Alongside farming, animal husbandry was an important part of the economy.

Economy and Trade 

The Harappan economy was robust, relying heavily on trade. The civilization used a system of standardized weights and measures, seals, and scripts to facilitate commerce. Major trading items included stone, metal, and shell, and trade extended to Mesopotamia, particularly in the exchange of lapis lazuli, a precious blue stone. The barter system was prevalent, as metal currency did not yet exist.

Crafts 

The Harappans were skilled in bronze-making, weaving, bead-making, and terracotta production. Their mastery of the potter’s wheel produced distinctive glossy pottery. Jewellery made from gold, silver, and semi-precious stones was common, with goldsmiths crafting intricate pieces for both everyday use and ritual purposes.

Religion 

Religion played a significant role, with numerous terracotta figurines suggesting the worship of a fertility goddess. A male deity, believed to be an early form of Pashupati Mahadeva, is depicted on seals, surrounded by animals. Symbols of fertility, animals, and trees indicate a belief system deeply connected to nature. Amulets were commonly worn, likely for religious or protective purposes.

The Decline of the Harappan Civilization

The reasons for the Harappan civilization’s decline remain debated, but several theories exist:

• Invasion Theory: Some suggest that the Aryans invaded and overthrew civilization, although evidence of cultural continuity challenges this view.
• Environmental Factors: The most accepted theory attributes the decline to natural causes, such as tectonic shifts and altered river courses, which may have led to droughts or floods, making agricultural production unsustainable.
• Changing Monsoon Patterns: Variations in monsoon rainfall could have further reduced crop yields, leading to widespread food shortages.

Recent Initiatives Related to Indus Valley Civilization Sites

The 100-year milestone has reignited interest in preserving and showcasing this civilization. Recent government initiatives include:

National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC)  : Developed under the Sagarmala programme, the NMHC at Lothal will feature museums, theme parks, and research institutes, aiming to highlight India’s maritime history and attract tourists.

Dholavira added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List  : In July 2021, Dholavira became India’s 40th World Heritage Site, a significant achievement in preserving the legacy of the IVC.

Development of Rakhigarhi as an Iconic Site  : In the 2020-21 budget, the Indian government proposed the development of Rakhigarhi in Haryana as an iconic archaeological site, reflecting the continuing importance of the Indus Valley Civilization in modern India.

Conclusion

The discovery of the Indus Valley Civilization a century ago reshaped our understanding of early human history and urban development. Today, the civilization’s influence is still evident in the region’s culture, trade, and architecture. As we look to the future, recent efforts to preserve and celebrate these ancient sites ensure that the legacy of the Harappans continues to inspire generations to come.