Introduction to Kalibangan
Kalibangan, a significant archaeological site, lies on the southern banks of the Ghaggar-Hakra River in Rajasthan, India. It is precisely located at 29.47°N 74.13°E in the Hanumangarh District, approximately 205 km from Bikaner. This site, notable for its prehistoric and pre-Mauryan character, was first identified by Luigi Tessitori. The full excavation report, published in 2003 by the Archaeological Survey of India, revealed Kalibangan as a major provincial capital of the Indus Valley Civilization, featuring unique fire altars and the world’s earliest attested ploughed field.
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Discovery and Excavation
Luigi Pio Tessitori, an Italian Indologist, discovered Kalibangan. He was researching ancient Indian texts when he stumbled upon the ruins, which he recognized as prehistoric and pre-Mauryan. Despite his early death, his findings laid the groundwork for future explorations. Post-India’s independence, intensified searches led to the recognition of Kalibangan as a Harappan site by Amlānand Ghosh, marking it for further excavation under B. B. Lal’s directorship from 1960 to 1969.
Archaeological Insights
The site comprises two main mounds: the smaller western mound known as the citadel and the larger eastern mound referred to as the lower city. Excavations revealed a twofold sequence of cultures: the upper one (Kalibangan I) showing a Harappan metropolis’s grid layout and the lower one (Kalibangan II) indicating an Early Harappan phase.
Early Harappan Phase
This phase at Kalibangan is linked to the Sothi-Siswal culture. It featured fortified structures and the use of dried mud bricks. The settlement was meticulously planned, resembling the urban design of Mohenjodaro and Harappa. Notably, the site provided evidence of the earliest ploughed agricultural field around 2900 BC, showcasing a grid pattern still used in contemporary local farming.
Harappan Phase
During this phase, Kalibangan flourished with well-regulated streets and advanced town planning. The city was fortified, and houses were uniformly laid out, opening onto several roads or lanes. Each house typically featured a courtyard surrounded by multiple rooms, with some houses containing wells. The discovery of fire altars suggests ritualistic activities, possibly including animal sacrifices.
Cultural and Artistic Aspects
The pottery from Kalibangan is distinguished by six fabrics, indicating various styles and usages. The terracotta figures, especially the charging bull, highlight the region’s rich artistic heritage. Additionally, numerous seals were found, including a notable cylindrical seal depicting a dynamic scene with human and animal figures.
End of Civilization and Modern Kalibangan
The site was abandoned around 2600 BC, likely due to the drying up of the Sarasvati River. Today, Kalibangan translates to “black bangles,” and an Archaeological Museum established in 1983 houses the artifacts found during the excavations, preserving the legacy of this ancient city.
In conclusion, Kalibangan stands as a testament to the architectural and cultural advancements of the Indus Valley Civilization, offering invaluable insights into early urban planning and societal practices.
Sources: Wikipedia
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