Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Rakhi Garhi, located in Haryana, India, is one of the largest and most significant Indus Valley Civilization (IVC) sites. Recent excavations have positioned it as potentially older than Mohenjo-daro and Harappa, challenging the conventional understanding of the IVC’s timeline and origins. The site’s continuous habitation spanning over millennia, from the early Harappan to the late Harappan phases, offers a unique opportunity to study the evolution of the civilization. The ongoing research at Rakhi Garhi is reshaping our understanding of the IVC, particularly concerning its rural-urban continuum and the socio-economic structures of its early phases. This answer will critically examine the evidence from Rakhi Garhi and its linkages to the wider Harappan civilization.
Discovery and Excavation
Rakhi Garhi was first identified as a significant site in the 1960s, but systematic excavations began in 1997 by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Further excavations, particularly those led by Vasant Shinde from 2013 onwards, have revealed a layered settlement with evidence of continuous occupation from 7000 BCE to 3000 BCE. The site is divided into several mounds (RGR-1 to RGR-11), each representing different phases of occupation and functional areas.
Evidence from Rakhi Garhi
Early Harappan Phase (7000-3300 BCE)
- Pottery: The earliest layers reveal Hakra ware, a distinctive pottery style associated with the pre-Harappan cultures of the Ghaggar-Hakra valley. This suggests a strong connection with the regional cultures predating the mature Harappan phase.
- Structures: Evidence of mud-brick structures, including houses and workshops, indicates a settled agricultural community.
- Agricultural Practices: Remains of barley, wheat, and other crops, along with tools for agriculture, demonstrate the site’s early reliance on farming.
Mature Harappan Phase (2600-1900 BCE)
- Planned City Layout: Rakhi Garhi exhibits a planned urban layout with well-defined streets, residential areas, and a possible citadel. However, unlike Mohenjo-daro and Harappa, it lacks a formal grid pattern.
- Drainage System: A sophisticated drainage system, though less elaborate than those found in other major cities, indicates a concern for sanitation and water management.
- Craft Production: Evidence of bead making, shell working, and metalworking workshops suggests a thriving craft industry. The discovery of copper artifacts and terracotta figurines is significant.
- Burials: Rakhi Garhi is notable for its unique burial practices. Several burials have been discovered, including those with grave goods, providing insights into the social stratification and belief systems of the Harappan people. One burial contained a skeleton adorned with a large number of beads, suggesting a person of high status.
- Largest Harappan Site: Rakhi Garhi is currently the largest Indus Valley Civilization site, covering an area of approximately 350 hectares, surpassing Mohenjo-daro and Harappa in size.
Late Harappan Phase (1900-1300 BCE)
- Decline in Urban Planning: The late Harappan phase shows a decline in urban planning and a shift towards more rural settlements.
- Continuity of Pottery Traditions: Despite the decline, certain pottery traditions continued, indicating a degree of cultural continuity.
Linkages to the Harappan Civilization
Ghaggar-Hakra Civilization
Rakhi Garhi’s location in the Ghaggar-Hakra river valley is crucial. The site is considered a key component of the Ghaggar-Hakra civilization, which predates and contributes to the mature Harappan phase. The presence of Hakra ware in the early layers demonstrates a direct link to this regional culture.
Comparison with Other Harappan Sites
| Feature | Rakhi Garhi | Mohenjo-daro | Harappa |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | Largest (350 hectares) | ~300 hectares | ~150 hectares |
| Urban Planning | Less formal grid pattern | Highly planned grid pattern | Planned, but less elaborate than Mohenjo-daro |
| Citadel | Possible, but not fully defined | Well-defined citadel | Citadel present |
| Burial Practices | Unique burial practices with grave goods | Relatively fewer burials | Burials found, but less elaborate |
Trade Networks
Evidence suggests that Rakhi Garhi was part of the extensive Harappan trade network. The discovery of lapis lazuli, carnelian, and other materials indicates trade connections with distant regions, including Mesopotamia and Central Asia. The site’s craft production likely contributed to the exchange of goods.
Challenging Existing Theories
Rakhi Garhi’s early dates challenge the traditional view that the Harappan civilization originated in the Indus Valley. The site suggests that the civilization may have had multiple origins, with the Ghaggar-Hakra valley playing a significant role in its early development. The absence of a formal grid pattern in its urban layout also suggests a different approach to urban planning compared to Mohenjo-daro and Harappa.
Conclusion
Rakhi Garhi stands as a pivotal site in unraveling the complexities of the Indus Valley Civilization. The evidence unearthed reveals a long and continuous history, from its pre-Harappan roots to its mature and late Harappan phases. Its size, unique burial practices, and early dates challenge existing narratives and highlight the importance of the Ghaggar-Hakra valley in the civilization’s development. Continued excavations and research at Rakhi Garhi promise to further refine our understanding of this fascinating ancient culture and its place in world history.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.