Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Indus Valley Civilization (IVC), also known as the Harappan Civilization, is one of the world's earliest urban cultures, flourishing across parts of South Asia. Archaeological excavations at various IVC sites have unveiled intricate town planning, sophisticated drainage systems, and evidence of diverse cultural and religious practices. Among the most intriguing discoveries are structures interpreted as fire-pits or fire altars, which provide crucial insights into the ritualistic life of the early inhabitants. These findings are particularly prominent at certain sites, distinguishing them for their unique contributions to our understanding of ancient Indian spiritual traditions.
Kalibangan: An Early Harappan Site with Fire-Pits
The Early Harappan site distinguished by the presence of fire-pits or fire altars is Kalibangan. Located on the banks of the Ghaggar River (identified by some as the ancient Sarasvati) in the Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan, India, Kalibangan is a pivotal archaeological site that offers insights into both Pre-Harappan and Harappan cultures.
Archaeological Discoveries at Kalibangan
- Fire Altars: The most significant discovery at Kalibangan is a series of brick platforms that contained fire altars. In one instance, a row of seven 'fire altars' was found, along with a pit containing animal bones and antlers, suggesting the practice of animal sacrifice.
- Ritualistic Significance: These fire altars indicate the prevalence of organized religious practices, potentially involving fire worship, which may have influenced later Vedic traditions. The alignment and construction of these altars suggest a formalized ritual system.
- Chronology: Kalibangan shows evidence of both Pre-Harappan (Kalibangan I) and Mature Harappan (Kalibangan II) phases. The fire altars have been found in both residential and ceremonial areas, indicating their widespread importance.
- Other Unique Finds: Besides fire altars, Kalibangan is also famous for providing the "world's earliest attested ploughed field," demonstrating advanced agricultural practices.
Location and Excavation
Kalibangan was initially identified for its prehistoric and pre-Mauryan characteristics by Luigi Pio Tessitori. Subsequent excavations were carried out by Amlanand Ghosh in 1953, and later extensively by B.B. Lal and B.K. Thapar of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) from 1961 to 1969. The site's name "Kalibangan" means "black bangles," referring to the numerous fragments of black terracotta bangles found there.
Conclusion
Kalibangan stands out as a crucial Early Harappan site due to the discovery of its distinctive fire-pits or fire altars. These archaeological findings provide invaluable evidence of ritualistic fire worship and organized religious practices among the Harappan people, offering a window into their spiritual beliefs and ceremonial life. Alongside its unique agricultural evidence, Kalibangan significantly enriches our understanding of the cultural depth and societal complexities of the Indus Valley Civilization, highlighting its diverse regional manifestations and the early roots of religious traditions in the Indian subcontinent.
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.