Indus–Saraswati Civilization: Foundations of Urban Culture in Ancient
India
Short Description of the Module:
This module delves into the Indus–Saraswati Civilization (also known as the Harappan
Civilization), one of the world’s earliest urban societies. It covers the origin, geographical
expansion, key features, socio-religious practices, international trade networks, and the
eventual decline of the civilization. The module provides a holistic understanding of its
advanced town planning, craftsmanship, economic systems, and interactions with
contemporary cultures.
Topic-Wise Breakdown:
1. Origin and Expansion
Time Period: c. 2600 BCE – 1900 BCE (Mature Phase).
Geographical Spread:
oFrom Harappa (Punjab, Pakistan) in the northwest to Lothal (Gujarat,
India) in the southeast.
oAlong the Indus River and the now-extinct Saraswati River basin (Ghaggar-
Hakra).
Development Stages:
oEarly Harappan (3300–2600 BCE)
oMature Harappan (2600–1900 BCE)
oLate Harappan (1900–1300 BCE)
2. Major Features
Urban Planning:
oGrid-pattern cities (e.g., Mohenjo-daro, Harappa).
oSophisticated drainage and sanitation systems.
Architecture:
oGranaries, public baths (Great Bath), warehouses, dockyards.
oUse of standardized baked bricks.
Technology:
oAdvanced metallurgy (copper, bronze).
oWeights and measures (binary and decimal systems).
3. Social and Religious Nature
Social Structure:
oLikely class-based society but with little evidence of kings or armies.
oSkilled artisans, merchants, and farmers.
Religious Beliefs:
oWorship of nature (trees, animals, mother goddess figures).
oProto-Shiva (Pashupati seal), sacred animals (bulls).
