Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The discovery of pit-dwellings in Kashmir, particularly at the sites of Burzahom and Harwan, provides crucial insights into the Neolithic and early historical periods of the region. These subterranean structures, excavated since the 1930s, represent a unique adaptation to the challenging climate and terrain of the Kashmir Valley. The presence of these dwellings indicates a settled agricultural community predating the more well-known historical settlements, offering a glimpse into the lives of early inhabitants and their evolving socio-cultural practices. Understanding these pit-dwellers is fundamental to reconstructing the pre-historic and proto-historic past of Kashmir.
Discovery and Excavation
The earliest systematic excavations revealing pit-dwellings in Kashmir were conducted by K.N. Dikshit and T.N. Hajra in the 1930s at Burzahom (meaning ‘place of birch’). Further excavations were carried out by A.K. Sharma in the 1960s and 70s. Harwan, another significant site, also yielded evidence of similar structures. These excavations were pivotal in establishing a chronological framework for the pre-historic Kashmir.
Characteristics of the Pit-Dwellings
The pit-dwellings are the most distinctive feature of these archaeological sites. They are generally circular or oval in shape, ranging in diameter from 3 to 6 meters and depth from 1 to 4 meters. Key characteristics include:
- Construction: The pits were dug into the loess deposits and lined with plastered walls, often using mud and grass.
- Roofing: The roofs were constructed using wooden posts and branches, covered with mud and thatch.
- Central Hearth: A central hearth was a common feature, suggesting the dwellings were used for cooking and heating.
- Storage Pits: Smaller pits adjacent to the main dwelling were used for storage of grains and other materials.
- Post-holes: Evidence of post-holes indicates the presence of superstructures above the pit, suggesting partially subterranean dwellings.
Chronological Phases and Cultural Inferences
The archaeological evidence at Burzahom and Harwan reveals a sequence of cultural phases:
- Period I (Neolithic): Characterized by pit-dwellings, coarse pottery, and stone tools. This phase suggests a hunter-gatherer lifestyle transitioning towards settled agriculture.
- Period II (Neolithic-Early Harappan): Shows a continuation of pit-dwellings but with refinements in pottery and the introduction of Harappan-related ceramics, indicating trade and cultural exchange.
- Period III (Early Historical): Marks the abandonment of pit-dwellings and the emergence of surface settlements with brick structures, reflecting a more developed urban lifestyle.
Significance and Adaptations
The pit-dwellings represent a unique adaptation to the cold climate of Kashmir. The subterranean structure provided insulation against the harsh winters. The location of the sites near perennial water sources and fertile land indicates a deliberate choice of settlement based on resource availability. The presence of domesticated animals (cattle, sheep, goats) and cultivated plants (wheat, barley) confirms the practice of agriculture and animal husbandry.
Comparison with other Pit-Dwelling Cultures
| Region | Pit-Dwelling Characteristics | Cultural Context |
|---|---|---|
| Kashmir (Burzahom, Harwan) | Circular/Oval, plastered walls, central hearth, storage pits | Neolithic-Early Historical, adaptation to cold climate |
| China (Yangshao Culture) | Semi-subterranean, rectangular or circular, communal living | Neolithic, early agricultural communities |
| North America (Pueblo Cultures) | Kivas (ceremonial pit-dwellings), complex architectural features | Pre-Columbian, religious and social significance |
Conclusion
The pit-dwellers of Kashmir represent a crucial chapter in the region’s prehistory. Their unique adaptation to the environment, coupled with evidence of evolving agricultural practices and cultural exchange, provides valuable insights into the origins of settled life in the Kashmir Valley. Further research and excavations are needed to fully understand the complexities of their society and their contribution to the cultural heritage of the region. The study of these dwellings continues to refine our understanding of the Neolithic transition and the early stages of civilization in the Indian subcontinent.
Answer Length
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