Kalibangan: Indus Valley Civilization

The interesting archaeological site at Kalibangan, located in Rajasthan, India, provides insights into the workings of one of the world’s oldest urban cultures—the Harappan Civilization. The ancient Harappan people’s life and times are revealed through the rich tapestry of features found at Kalibangan, which was discovered in 1953 and thoroughly excavated in the years that followed.

In this article, we will learn about Kalibangan: Harappan Civilization in depth.

Kalibangan Overview

Here’s a simplified tabular overview of Kalibangan, an archaeological site from the Harappan Civilization:

Aspect	Information
Location	Hanumangarh district, Rajasthan, India
Period	Approx. 3500–1750 BCE (Early to Mature Harappan Phase)
Discovery	1953 by Luigi Pio Tessitori, an Italian Indologist
Excavation	Conducted by B. B. Lal in the 1960s and 1970s
City Layout	Divided into two parts: the citadel (higher area) and the lower town; evidence of advanced urban planning
Fortifications	Presence of defensive walls and bastions
Artifacts	Terracotta figurines, pottery, seals, beads, copper tools, and jewelry
Fire Altars	Discovery of fire altars suggests possible ritualistic activities
Trade and Economy	Engaged in trade with Mesopotamia; evidence of agricultural practices and craftsmanship
Decline and Abandonment	Declined around 1750 BCE; reasons uncertain, possibly environmental changes or shifts in trade routes

This table provides key information about Kalibangan, covering aspects such as its location, historical period, discovery, excavation, city layout, fortifications, notable artifacts, evidence of fire altars, economic activities, and the uncertain factors related to its decline and abandonment.

Kalibangan: History

One of the oldest urban cultures in the world, the Harappan Civilization, can be better understood through the archeological site of Kalibangan. Here’s a quick rundown:

1. Finding and Place:
   • Discovery: Italian Indologist Luigi Pio Tessitori made the discovery of Kalibangan in 1953.
   • Location: It’s in Rajasthan, India’s Hanumangarh district.
2. Historical Time Frame:
   Two important eras of the Harappan Civilization were marked by occupation
   • Kalibangan: Around 3500–2600 BCE, during the Early Harappan Phase, there was early settlement and agricultural techniques.
   • Mature Harappan Phase: thriving trade, sophisticated city planning, and urban civilization (c. 2600–1900 BCE).
3. Structures and City Layout:
   • Citadel and Lower Town: The citadel, or higher area, and the lower town were the two divisions of Kalibangan. Most likely, the fortress was used as a headquarters or as a posh neighborhood.
   • Fortifications: To emphasize the necessity for security, defensive walls and bastions were built.
4. Artifacts and Archaeological Finds:
   • Pottery and Art: A variety of pottery types, terracotta figurines, and complex items have been discovered, demonstrating the residents’ artistic and craft abilities.
   • Fire Altars: Finding fire altars raises the possibility of ritualistic or religious activity.
5. Commerce and Finance:
   • Kalibangan traded, maybe with Mesopotamia as well as with other members of the Harappan Civilization.
   • Evidence of artisan activity and agricultural operations, such as the fabrication of copper tools and beads.

Kalibangan: Features

Kalibangan, as an archaeological site of the Harappan Civilization, boasts several distinctive features that provide insights into the cultural, architectural, and economic aspects of this ancient urban center. Here are some key features of Kalibangan:

1. City Layout:
   • Kalibangan was divided into two major sections – the citadel (a higher area) and the lower town. This layout is a common feature in many Harappan cities, reflecting a well-planned urban structure.
2. Defensive Fortifications:
   • The presence of defensive walls and bastions indicates a strategic focus on protection. These fortifications suggest a concern for the safety and security of the inhabitants, possibly in response to external threats.
3. Artifacts and Craftsmanship:
   • Rich archaeological finds include pottery, terracotta figurines, and various artifacts showcasing the artistic and craft skills of the people. These items provide a window into the daily life, aesthetics, and technological advancements of the Harappan residents.
4. Fire Altars:
   • The discovery of fire altars is a unique feature of Kalibangan. These structures suggest the presence of ritualistic or ceremonial activities, contributing to our understanding of the spiritual practices and belief systems of the Harappan people.

Kalibangan: Artefacts

The archaeological excavations at Kalibangan, a site belonging to the Harappan Civilization, have revealed a diverse range of artifacts that offer valuable insights into the material culture and daily life of its ancient inhabitants. Here are some notable artifacts discovered at Kalibangan:

1. Pottery:
   • Various types of pottery have been unearthed, including well-crafted jars, bowls, and storage vessels.
   • The pottery exhibits a high level of craftsmanship, often adorned with intricate designs and patterns.
2. Terracotta Figurines:
   • Kalibangan has yielded a significant number of terracotta figurines depicting human and animal forms.
   • These figurines serve as evidence of the artistic skills and cultural practices of the Harappan people.
3. Seals:
   • Seals with engraved Harappan script have been discovered at Kalibangan.
   • These seals were likely used for trade and administrative purposes, showcasing a standardized system of communication.
4. Beads and Ornaments:
   • Beads made from various materials, including semi-precious stones, shell, and metal, have been found.
   • The beads suggest a thriving bead-making industry and were likely used for personal adornment and trade.
5. Copper Tools and Implements:
   • Copper tools such as knives, needles, and fish hooks have been unearthed.
   • These tools indicate a level of technological advancement in metalworking and were likely used for various purposes, including daily tasks and craft activities.

Conclusion

In Conclusion, Kalibangan represents an important period in the Harappan Civilization’s history and provides insight into the intricate workings of a prehistoric urban society. This archaeological site in Rajasthan, India was found in 1953 and explored over the next few decades. The excavations provided important new information on the dynamics of the Early and Mature Harappan eras.

The layout of the city, which is separated into a lower town and a citadel, demonstrates excellent urban design. The necessity for defense is emphasized by defensive walls and bastions, which highlight the difficulties that the locals experience as society develops.

FAQs : Kalibangan: Harappan Civilization

What is Kalibangan famous for in Harappan civilization?

Italian indologist Luigi Pio Tessitori made the discovery of the Kalibangan site in 1953. Black bangles and earthenware are its specialty. During excavation, artifacts like as seals, coins, earthenware ceramics, sculptures, and inscriptions have been discovered.

On which river is Kalibangan Harappan site?

Kalibangan is one of the important Harappan cities situated on the southern bank of the river Ghagga.

Why Kalibangan is known as black bangles?

“The site Kalibangan – literally ‘black bangles’ – derives its name for the dense distribution of the fragments of black bangles which were found at the surface of its mounds. . .” writes Madhu Bala.

What is Kalibangan also known as?

India. Additionally called: Kāli Banga. Located in the northern state of Rajasthan in northwest India is Kalibangan, a historic site of the Indus Valley Civilization.

What is the bronze bull of Kalibangan?

All of the major Indus Valley Civilization hubs were known for their popularity with bronze casting. The human figures made of copper and bronze from Harappa and Mohenjodaro are in no way inferior to the humped bull figurine made of terracotta from Kalibangan.