Introduction to the Seriously Underrated Indus Valley / Harappan Civilization

Aristobulus, a companion of Alexander the Great, documented his observations of a region with over a thousand cities during his missions. The Greek geographer Strabo referenced Aristobulus's account, which hints at the significant but later forgotten Indus Valley Civilization, noted for its advanced urban planning and society. The civilization is rightfully recognized for its organized cities, trade networks, and innovations. Subsequent excavation efforts by figures like Alexander Cunningham and Sir John Marshall revealed the extensive ruins of cities like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, establishing their importance in history.

Research into the Harappan Civilization expanded with excavations undertaken by archaeologists, including R.D. Banerji's discovery of seals and structures at Mohenjo-Daro. John Marshall concluded in 1924 that both Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro belonged to the same, then-unknown Bronze Age civilization recognized as the Indus Valley Civilization. This civilization has influenced and been documented through various archaeological finds throughout Northwestern India, highlighting its broader geographical significance beyond the Indus Valley.

The Indus Valley Civilization is divided into three phases: Early Harappan (3300-2600 BC), Mature Harappan (2600-1900 BC), and Late Harappan (1900-1300 BC). During the Mature Harappan phase, urbanization peaked with the establishment of well-planned cities, showcasing advanced drainage systems and public amenities. This period marks the zenith of Harappan achievements in urban design, technology, and social structure, influencing subsequent cultural developments in the region.

It is estimated that the Harappan Civilization encompassed a vast territory extending from the Ganges River in the east to the borders of modern-day Iran in the west, housing millions. The civilization flourished along the Indus and Gaggar-Hakra rivers, benefiting from seasonal flooding that deposited fertile silt ideal for agriculture, which became a cornerstone of their society. The sophisticated agricultural practices laid the foundation for urban growth and trade connections.

Innovations in construction material, such as baked bricks, enabled the Indus Valley people to build durable structures resistant to the area's climate challenges. The use of bronze became increasingly prevalent during the Mature Harappan phase, indicating the civilization's advanced technological capabilities in tool-making and trade. Evidence suggests robust trade networks existed to procure raw materials from distant mines, fostering extensive economic exchanges across regions.

The Harappan writing system remains undeciphered, with scholars theorizing its connection to trade and commerce. Seals likely served multiple purposes, from marking ownership to possibly indicating religious identities. The mystery of this script continues to intrigue researchers, who seek a deeper understanding of Harappan society and culture, including their names for cities and their civilization.

Distinct from other contemporary cultures, the Harappan civilization emphasized urban planning and public hygiene. Cities featured elaborate drainage and water supply systems, with evidence suggesting an egalitarian society where common people enjoyed comforts previously uncommon. Interpretations of social structure imply varying levels of wealth and power, though a lack of grand palatial structures raises questions about centralized authority or ruling hierarchies.