Indus Valley Civilization

Introduction:

The Indus Valley Civilization originated nearly 5000 years ago in the area irrigated by the mighty Indus River and it's tributaries. This land is presently known as Pakistan. Two major archeological sites which remind us of this once-great civilization are Moenjodaro and Harrapa. These sites were discovered as a result of an excavation carried out under the supervision of a British archeologist Sir John Marshall, in 1922.

Moenjodaro means City of the Dead. It is situated at a distance of 27km from Larkana, in Sindh. Harrapa is a site 24km away from the city of Sahiwal, in Punjab. In spite of a distance of 650km between the two cities, both are similar many ways. The people of these cities were very civilized and urbane. Indus Valley Civilization came to an end about 2500 years ago as a result of floods.

Architecture:

An impressive architectural taste is visible in the buildings of the Indus Valley Civilization. The cities were well planned and were developed on large areas. Most of the roads were 33feet wide. Proper sanitation and drainage system was present and the drains were kept covered. Every house had a bathroom and a well. Basements were built to counter with the harsh weather conditions. God owns were used for storage purposes. In short the cities of Moenjodaro and Harraapa reveal the engineering skill and vast knowledge of its inhabitants.

Religious Beliefs:

During the excavation a number of idols made of metals, wood, clay and stone were discovered. Therefore it is believed that most of the people of ancient Indus Valley Civilization worshiped idols while the others worshiped sun, moon and the stars. Special temples for collective prayers were also present. The dead were buried in grave yards.

Dressing and Fashions:

Archeologists say that the people of Moenjodaro and Harrapa were quite trendy. Jewelry and garments were weaknesses of the ancient women. A machine resembling a spinning wheel has also been discovered. Some of the idols found from Indus Valley were wearing cotton outfits which shows that the people of ancient cities were well versed in weaving cotton. Ornaments including bangles, rings, ear rings etc were imported from Central Asia.

Weapons and Wars:

The people of Indus Valley were not bellicose at all and loved peace. This is clear from their attitude towards the battle field. Consequently, the warriors from Central Asia conquered the Indus valley and a number of these warriors settled here permanently. The native people fled to other parts of sub-continent. People of ancient Moenjodaro and Harrapa used swords, knives, daggers and axes in the battle. Copper and Bronze were the two main metals used to manufacture weapons.

Trade and Commerce:

It is believed that the people of this civilization had a strong system of trade. The traded with far off nations. Although the ancient valley didn't produce metals like Silver, Bronze and Copper but articles and jewelry made of these metals were quite common in Moenjodaro and Harrapa. These metals were probably imported from Iran, Afghanistan, Central Asia and Kharasan. The native people traveled frequently for business and trade.

Fauna:

The walls of ancient cities of Moenjodaro and Harrapa bear paintings of various animals like snakes, lions, buffaloes, fish, elephants and birds like eagles , sparrows and pigeons which shows that these animals existed in the area. Some seals and coins also have sketches of animals and birds engraved on them.