2. z
Harappa was one of the oldest cities discovered
by archaeologists. Harappa cities developed
about 4500 years ago. Although Harappa was the
first site to be discovered it lay in ruins.
Enrich Your Knowledge
3. z
DISCOVERY AND EXTENT
IN 1921 an Indian archaeologist, Mr. Daya Ram
Shani, discovered the ruins of the city of Harappa. In
1922 Dr Rakhal Das Banerjee discovered the ruins of
Mohenjo-Daro.
5. z
Town planning
salient features of the town planning in Indus Valley Civilization.
• Grid Pattern. Harappa and Mohan-Jo-Daro were laid out on a grid pattern and had
provisions for an advanced drainage system
• City Walls
• The acropolis and the lower cities
• The Residential Buildings
• In-house wells
• Drainage System
• Granaries etc.
7. z
Occupation
• Agriculture: Agriculture was the main occupation of the Indus Valley people. Crops
such as wheat, barley, peas and bananas were raised
• Domestication of Animals: The people of Harappa domesticated animals like oxen,
buffaloes, pigs, goats and sheep.
• Camels and asses were used as means of transport. Dogs and cats were kept as pets. The
humped bull was considered a great asset in the farming community. Crafts The discovery
of spindles at the sites of Harappan culture shows that the people used to spin and weave.
• Goldsmiths made jewellery of gold, silver and precious stones. People were also engaged
in brick-laying and in the art of sculpture. The making of seals was developed during this
period. Bronze-smiths made various types of weapons and tools such as knives, spears,
saws and axes which were used in daily life.
• Trade: Traders carried on trade in the country as well as with other countries like Egypt,
Babylon and Afghanistan. Many seals of Harappa found in Mesopotamia show that trade
existed between the two countries. The seals were made of terracotta and were used by
merchants to stamp their goods.
