Question 1

Q1: Why does the civilisation studied in this chapter have several names? Discuss their significance.

Accepted Answer

The civilisation studied in this chapter is known by several names, each with historical or geographical significance. It is called the 'Harappan Civilisation' because Harappa was the first city of this civilisation to be excavated in 1920-21. It is also referred to as the 'Indus Civilisation' or 'I...

Question 2

Q2: Write a brief report (150 to 200 words) summing up some of the achievements of the Indus-Sarasvatī civilisation.

Accepted Answer

The Indus-Sarasvatī Civilisation, one of the oldest in the world, achieved remarkable feats in urban planning, water management, crafts, and trade. Its cities, like Harappa and Mohenjo-daro, were built according to precise plans with wide, cardinal-oriented streets and distinct upper and lower towns...

Question 3

Q3: Imagine you have to travel from the city of Harappa to Kalibangan. What are your different options? Can you make a rough estimation of the amount of t...

Accepted Answer

To travel from Harappa (in modern-day Pakistan's Punjab) to Kalibangan (in Rajasthan, India) during the Harappan period, one would have primarily two options: 1.  Land Route: Travel would involve walking or using animal-drawn carts. The terrain would be mostly plains, but river crossings would be ne...

Question 4

Q4: Let us imagine a Harappan man or woman being transported to an average kitchen in today's India. What are the four or five biggest surprises awaiting...

Accepted Answer

If a Harappan man or woman were transported to an average kitchen in today's India, they would encounter several significant surprises: 1.  Cooking Appliances: The presence of gas stoves or electric cooktops would be astonishing. Harappans cooked using open fires or basic hearths, so the concept of...

Question 5

Q5: Looking at all the pictures in this chapter, make a list of the ornaments / gestures / objects that still feel familiar in our $21{^{	ext{st}}}$ centu...

Accepted Answer

Upon observing the pictures in this chapter, several ornaments, gestures, and objects still feel familiar in our 21st century:    Ornaments/Clothing:        Beads (Fig. 6.10): Carnelian beads, though made with ancient techniques, are similar to many types of beaded jewellery worn today.        Bangl...

Question 6

Q6: What mindset does the system of reservoirs at Dholavira reflect?

Accepted Answer

The elaborate system of reservoirs at Dholavira reflects a highly advanced and forward-thinking mindset focused on long-term planning, community welfare, and efficient resource management. The construction of at least six large reservoirs, some cut into rock and connected by underground drains for w...

Question 7

Q7: In Mohenjo-daro, about 700 wells built with bricks have been counted. They seem to have been regularly maintained and used for several centuries. Disc...

Accepted Answer

The presence of about 700 brick-built wells in Mohenjo-daro, regularly maintained and used for centuries, has several significant implications: 1.  High Population Density and Water Needs: Such a large number of wells indicates a substantial urban population that required a consistent and accessible...

Question 8

Q8: It is often said that the Harappans had a high civic sense. Discuss the significance of this statement. Do you agree with it? Compare with citizens in...

Accepted Answer

The statement that Harappans had a high civic sense is significant because it suggests a society where citizens demonstrated responsibility towards their community, adhered to public rules, and contributed to collective well-being and cleanliness. This implies a strong sense of order, discipline, an...

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