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The Early Harappan Culture emerged from the gradual development of early farming communities in the Indus-Saraswati region. It flourished between the late 4th millennium B.C. and mid-3rd millennium B.C., displaying both regional diversity and cultural uniformity.

Exploring Key Features of Early Harappan Culture: Settlements and Trade

• Geographical spread: Indus, Saraswati, and Darishadwati river valleys.
• Transition from rural settlements to urban centers.
• Widespread trade networks and advanced craftsmanship.
• Development of fortifications and planned settlements.

Detailed Overview of Early Harappan Phase: Geographical Extent to Social Aspects

Analyzing Geographical Extent of Early Harappan Culture: Key Regions

• Covered present-day Pakistan, northwest India, and parts of Afghanistan.
• Major regions included Baluchistan, Gujarat, and Haryana.

Examining Settlements and Urban Planning in the Early Harappan Period

• Key sites: Kot Diji, Amri, Kalibangan, Rakhigarhi.
• Use of mud-brick houses, often elevated on artificial mounds for flood protection.
• Basic urban layout with streets and drainage systems.

Understanding Agriculture and Economy in the Early Harappan Culture

• Cultivated crops: wheat, barley, peas, mustard.
• Farming techniques: plowing, irrigation, and crop rotation.
• Domesticated animals: cattle, sheep, goats, buffalo.
• Extensive trade networks within the region and with Mesopotamia.

Reviewing Technological and Cultural Developments in the Early Harappan Phase

• Pottery styles: Red Ware and Black-and-Red Ware with geometric motifs.
• Stone and copper tools for daily use and craftsmanship.
• Bead-making using semi-precious stones.

Analyzing Social and Religious Aspects of the Early Harappan Culture

• Settlement hierarchy suggests a stratified society.
• Burial practices indicate social differentiation.
• Seals and terracotta figurines reflect early religious beliefs.

Exploring Architectural and Structural Features of Early Harappan Settlements

• Fortifications
  • Massive walls found at Kalibangan, Siswal, and Rakhigarhi.
  • Constructed using molded mud bricks in a 1:2:3 ratio.
  • Fortifications suggest a need for security and defense.
• House Complexes
  • Structures included kitchens, courtyards, and multiple rooms.
  • Brick masonry followed an English bond pattern.
  • Sun-dried mud bricks were commonly used for construction.
• Drainage Systems
  • Evidence of drainage systems at Kalibangan and Rakhigarhi.
  • Burnt brick and mud brick drains connected to houses.
  • Proper wastewater disposal indicated early sanitation practices.

Analyzing Economic and Trade Developments in the Early Harappan Period

• Based on agriculture, animal husbandry, and trade.
• Domesticated animals included cattle, sheep, and goats.
• Ploughed fields found at Kalibangan indicate advanced farming.
• Regional and long-distance trade connections with Mesopotamia.
• Key imports: copper from Khetri, sandstone from Aravalli, and shells from coastal regions.

Examining Ceramics and Craftsmanship in the Early Harappan Culture

• Distinct pottery types:
  • Red Ware with black-and-white motifs.
  • Fine paste pottery with geometric patterns.
  • Thick, sturdy wares used for large jars and basins.
• Terracotta figurines depicting animals and humans.
• Tools and ornaments crafted from stone, shell, and bone.

Analyzing Artifacts and Material Culture of the Early Harappan Phase

• Metal Objects
  • Copper tools: axes, chisels, arrowheads.
  • Gold and silver beads, ornaments.
• Stone and Shell Artifacts
  • Chert, agate, and jasper tools.
  • Shell bangles and decorative items.
• Terracotta Objects
  • Figurines, toy carts, spindle whorls.
  • Beads and pottery with symbolic motifs.