Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Harappan civilization, part of the Indus Valley Civilization (c. 3300 BCE to 1300 BCE), is renowned for its sophisticated urban planning and architectural prowess, a testament to its advanced engineering skills. Unlike other contemporary civilizations, Harappan architecture prioritized functionality and civic welfare over monumental display, showcasing remarkable uniformity and an advanced understanding of urban management. This reflects a society with strong administrative control and a focus on collective well-being.
Salient Features of Harappan Architecture
- Systematic Town Planning: Harappan cities were laid out in a grid pattern, with streets intersecting at right angles, dividing the city into rectangular blocks. Cities like Mohenjo-daro and Harappa were typically divided into a Citadel (for elite/administrative use) and a Lower Town (residential area).
- Standardized Building Materials: A distinctive feature was the widespread use of baked bricks of uniform dimensions (typically 1:2:4 ratio) in almost all constructions, indicating a high degree of standardization and quality control. Mud bricks and stone were also used, for example, Dholavira used stone.
- Advanced Drainage System: Harappan cities boasted an unparalleled, efficient closed drainage system. Houses had private bathrooms and drains connected to a sophisticated network of covered street drains, often with inspection holes and soak pits, reflecting a strong emphasis on public health and hygiene.
- Public Structures:
- The Great Bath (Mohenjo-daro): A monumental public water tank (approx. 12m x 7m x 2.4m deep) constructed with finely fitted bricks and a waterproof layer of bitumen. It had two wide staircases and is believed to have been used for ritualistic bathing.
- Granaries: Large structures found at sites like Harappa and Mohenjo-daro, built on raised platforms with ventilation shafts to store surplus grains, signifying organized food management and economic stability.
- Assembly Halls: Pillared halls suggest spaces for public gatherings or administrative functions.
- Residential Architecture: Houses, often multi-storied, were built around central courtyards with multiple rooms, private wells, and bathing platforms. Doors typically opened into narrower side lanes rather than main streets, ensuring privacy.
Conclusion
The architectural features of the Harappan civilization demonstrate an extraordinary level of civic organization, engineering precision, and a pragmatic approach to urban living. Their grid-patterned cities, robust drainage systems, standardized construction, and functional public buildings like the Great Bath and granaries highlight a society that prioritized public welfare, sanitation, and resource management. These features continue to impress modern urban planners and serve as a testament to the ingenuity of one of the world's earliest urban civilizations.
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.