The book Discovering India Anew: Out of Africa to its Early History by Alan Machado (Prabhu) provides a detailed overview of India’s ancient history, particularly focusing on the Indus Valley Civilization. This civilization featured five major urban sites that were strategically positioned across a vast area, resembling a grid system.
1. Mohenjo-Daro: Located in central Sindh on the Indus River, Mohenjo-Daro was the largest city, pivotal for controlling key trade routes. The city was densely populated and featured a citadel and a lower city laid out in a grid pattern. The citadel housed significant structures including the Great Bath, potentially a site of religious importance.
2. Harappa: Situated on the Ravi River in Punjab, Harappa underwent continuous development from its beginnings as a small settlement around 3700 BCE. By 2600 BCE, it had become a bustling urban center with extensive trading networks stretching across regions. Despite heavy looting in the 19th century, remnants of its grand architecture still provide insights into its past glory.
3. Ganweriwala: Located in the Ghaggar-Hakra valley, Ganweriwala remains largely unexcavated but is known for surface materials like ceramics and clay toys. The city was divided into a citadel and a lower town, suggesting a structured urban layout.
4. Rakhigarhi: This site in Haryana stood on an old riverbed and expanded significantly during the Mature Harappan period. Excavations reveal sophisticated urban planning with walled residential areas and a central citadel.
5. Dholavira: Built on Khadir Island in the Rann of Kutch, Dholavira was strategically placed to control maritime routes. The city was known for its massive stone walls and urban planning that included water conservation systems.
These cities not only exemplify advanced urban planning and architecture but also illustrate the Harappans’ ability to integrate their settlements into a coherent urban network across a vast geographical area.
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