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Rakhigarhi

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Rakhigarhi
Rakhigarhi is located in India
Rakhigarhi
Shown within India
Alternative nameRakhi Garhi
LocationHaryana, India
TypeSettlement
Area80–105 hectares (0.80–1.05 km2; 0.31–0.41 sq mi) (Gregory Possehl, Rita P. Wright, Raymond Allchin, Jonathan Mark Kenoyer)
Tentative figure of 124–400 hectares (1.24–4.00 km2; 0.48–1.54 sq mi)* (Nath (field report), Shinde et al.)
History
CulturesIndus Valley Civilization
Site notes
Excavation dates1963, 1997–2000, 2011-present

Rakhigarhi, or Rakhi Garhi (Rakhi Shahpur + Rakhi Khas), is a village in Hisar District in the state of Haryana in India, situated 150 kilometers to the northwest of Delhi. It is the site of an Indus Valley Civilisation settlement dating to the period of 2600 BCE to 1900 BCE, and is located in the Ghaggar-Hakra river plain,[1] some 27 kms from the seasonal Ghaggar river.

Excavations

In 1963, Archeological Survey of India (ASI) began excavations at this site, and, though little has been published about the excavations.[2][3] Further excavations were conducted the ASI headed by the archaeologist, Amarendra Nath, between 1997 and 2000.[4][note 1] The more recent excavations have been performed by Vasant Shinde, an archaeologist from the Deccan College.[5]

The ASI's detailed excavation of the site revealed the size of the lost city and recovered numerous artefacts, some over 5,000 years old. Rakhigarhi was occupied at Early Harappan times.[6][7] Evidence of paved roads, drainage system, large rainwater collection, storage system, terracotta bricks, statue production, and skilled working of bronze and precious metals have been uncovered. Jewellery, including bangles made from terracotta, conch shells, gold, and semi-precious stones, have also been found.[8]

There are nine mounds in Rakhigarhi which are named RGR-1 to RGR-9, of which RGR-5 is thickly populated by establishment of Rakhishahpur village and is not available for excavations. RGR-1 to RGR-3, RGR6 to RGR9 and some part of RGR-4 are available for excavations.[7][9][10]

In 2014 six radiocarbon datings from excavations al Rakhigarhi between 1997 and 2000 were published, corresponding to the three periods at the site as per archaeologist Amarendra Nath (Pre-formative, Early Harappan, and Mature Harappan). Mound RGR-6 revealed a Pre-formative stage designated as Sothi Phase with the following two datings: 6420 +/- 110 and 6230 +/- 320 years Before Present, converted to 4470 +/- 110 BCE and 4280 +/- 320 BCE.[11]

Area

Most scholars, including Gregory Possehl, Jonathan Mark Kenoyer, Raymond Allchin and Rita P. Wright believe it to be between 80 hectares and 100+ hectares in area.[12][13][14][15][16][1] Furthermore, Possehl did not believe that all mounds in Rakhigarhi belong to the same Indus Valley settlement, stating, "RGR-6, a Sothi-Siswal site known as Arda, was probably a separate settlement."[12]

Amarendra Nath's excavations between 1997 and 2000 however place the extent of the site at 124 hectares (1.24 km2) with the figure increasing to 240 hectares (2.4 km2) if the area between the mounds were to be included. This would make it the largest such site not only in India but of the entire Harappan domain.[4] As per Shinde's excavations, the discovery of two more mounds at the site suggest a tentative total area encompassing up to 400 hectares (4.0 km2). These figures are preliminary and subject to change.[5][17][18][19]

Discoveries

Digging so far reveals a well planned city with 1.92 m wide roads, a bit wider than in Kalibangan. The pottery is similar to Kalibangan and Banawali. Pits surrounded by walls have been found, which are thought to be for sacrificial or some religious ceremonies. Fire was used extensively in their religious ceremonies. There are brick lined drains to handle sewage from the houses. Terracotta statues, weights, bronze artefacts, comb, copper fish hooks, needles and terracotta seals have also been found. A bronze vessel has been found which is decorated with gold and silver. A gold foundry with about 3000 unpolished semi-precious stones has been found. Many tools used for polishing these stones and a furnace were found there. A burial site has been found with 11 skeletons, with their heads in the north direction. Near the heads of these skeletons, utensils for everyday use were kept. The three female skeletons have shell bangles on their left wrists. Near one female skeleton, a gold armlet has been found. In addition semi precious stones have been found lying near the head, showing that they were part of some sort of necklace.

A skeleton from Rakhigarhi on display in the National Museum.

In April 2015, four complete human skeletons were excavated from mound RGR-7. These skeletons belonged to two male adults, one female adult and one child. Pottery with grains of food as well as shell bangles were found around these skeletons.[20]

As the skeletons were excavated scientifically without any contamination, archaeologists think that with the help of latest technology on these skeletons and DNA obtained, it is possible to determine how Harappans looked like 4500 years ago.[21]

Fire altars and apsidal structures were revealed in Rakhigarhi.[9]

Hunting tools like copper hafts and fish hooks have been found here. Presence of various toys like mini wheels, miniature lids, sling balls, animal figurines indicates a prevalence of toy culture. Signs of flourishing trade can be seen by the excavation of stamps, jewellery and 'chert' weights. Weights found here are similar to weights found at many other IVC sites confirming presence of standardized weight systems.[22]

Cotton cloth traces preserved on silver or bronze objects were known from Rakhigarhi, Chanhudaro and Harappa.[23]: 333  An impressive number of stamps seals were also found at this site.[6]

Hakra ware

The site has thick deposits of ‘Hakra Ware’ (typical of settlements dating back before the early phases of Indus Valley and dried up Sarasvati river valley).[6] It also has ‘Early and ‘Mature’ Harappan artefacts. The solid presence of the Hakra Ware culture raises the important question: "Did the Indus civilization come later than it is recorded?" The Hakra and the Early phases are separated by more than 500–600 years and the Hakra people are considered to be the earliest Indus inhabitants. Although the carbon-14 dating results are awaited, based on the thick layers of Hakra Ware at Rakhigarhi, it is said that the site may date back to about 2500 BC to 3000 BC.

Granary

A granary belonging to mature Harappan phase (2600 BCE to 2000 BCE) has been found here. Granary is made up of mud-bricks with a floor of ramped earth plastered with mud. It has 7 rectangular or square chambers. Significant traces of lime & decomposed grass are found on the lower portion of the granary wall indicating that it can also be the storehouse of grains with lime used as insecticide & grass used to prevent entry of moisture. Looking at the size, it appears to be a public granary or a private granary of elites.[24]

Cemetery

A Cemetery of Mature Harappan period is discovered at Rakhigarhi, with eight graves found. Often brick covered grave pits had wooden coffin in one case.[6] Different type of grave pits were undercut to form an earthen overhang and body was placed below this; and then top of grave was filled with bricks to form a roof structure over the grave.[23]: 293 

Parasite eggs which were once existed in the stomach of those buried were found in the burial sites along with human skeletans. Analysis of Human aDNA obtained from human bones as well as analysis of parasite & animal DNA will be done to assert origins of these people.[25] [26]

Present

Today, Rakhigarhi is a small village in Haryana State, India.[clarification needed] The ASI excavated the place for three winters, starting from 1997. The excavation has been stopped for years because of a CBI investigation on the misuse of funds.[27] Much of the findings are donated to the National Museum.

In May 2012, the Global Heritage Fund, declared Rakhigarhi one of the 10 most endangered heritage sites in Asia.[28] A study by the Sunday Times, found that the site is not being looked after, the iron boundary wall is broken, and villagers sell the artefacts they dig out of the site and parts of site are now being encroached by private houses.[29]

Importance

The size and uniqueness of Rakhigarhi has drawn much attention of archaeologists all over the world.[citation needed] It is nearer to Delhi,[clarification needed] indicating the spread of Indus Valley Civilization up to this distance[clarification needed] of North India.[clarification needed] Much of the area is yet to be excavated[6] and details to be published from this site.[23]: 215 [clarification needed] Another related site in the area is Mitathal,[clarification needed] which is still awaiting excavation.

See also

Notes

  1. ^ Amarendra Nath was later found guilty for forging bills during the excavation at Rakhigarhi.

References

  1. ^ a b Wright, Rita P. (2009), The Ancient Indus: Urbanism, Economy, and Society, Cambridge University Press, p. 133, ISBN 978-0-521-57219-4, retrieved 29 September 2013 Quote: "There are a large number of settlements to the east on the continuation of the Ghaggar Plain in northwest India. ... Kalibangan, Rakhigarhi, and Banawali are located here. Rakhigarhi was over 100 hectares in size."
  2. ^ Wright, Rita P. (2009), The Ancient Indus: Urbanism, Economy, and Society, Cambridge University Press, p. 107, ISBN 978-0-521-57219-4 Quote: "Rakhigarhi will be discussed briefly in view of the limited published material" (p 107)
  3. ^ Sinopoli, Carla M. (2015), "Ancient South Asian cities in their regions", in Norman Yoffee (ed.) (ed.), The Cambridge World History, Cambridge University Press, p. 325, ISBN 978-0-521-19008-4 {{citation}}: |editor= has generic name (help) Quote: "Excavations have also occurred at Rakhigarhi, but only brief notes have been published, and little information is currently available on its form and organization. (page 325)"
  4. ^ a b Nath, Amarendra (31 December 2014). "Excavations at Rakhigarhi [1997-98 to 1999-2000]" (PDF). Archaeological Survey of India. Archaeological Survey of India. p. 306. Retrieved 22 February 2016.
  5. ^ a b Shinde, Vasant; Green, Adam; Parmar, Narender; Sable, P. D. (2012–2013). "Rakhigarhi and the Harappan Civilization: Recent Work and New Challenges". Bulletin of the Deccan College Research Institute. 72/73: 48. Retrieved 22 February 2016 – via JSTOR. {{cite journal}}: Unknown parameter |subscription= ignored (|url-access= suggested) (help)
  6. ^ a b c d e Possehl, Gregory L. (2002). The indus civilization : a contemporary perspective (2. print. ed.). Walnut Creek, CA: AltaMira Press. pp. 63, 71, 72. ISBN 9780759101722.
  7. ^ a b "Harappan Surprises". Frontline. 13 June 2014.
  8. ^ Chandigarh Newsline, 2/23/2007, 'Rakhigarhi is the Largest Harappan Site Ever Found'
  9. ^ a b Archaeological Survey of, India. "Indian Archaeology 1997-98" (PDF). Excavation at Rakhigarhi. Archaeological Survey of INdia. Retrieved 17 July 2012.
  10. ^ "Rakhigarhi, the biggest Harappan site". The Hindu. 27 March 2014.
  11. ^ Nath, Amarendra, Tejas Garge and Randall Law, 2014. "Defining the Economical Space of Harappan Rakhigarhi", in Puratattva 44, Indian Archaeological Society, New Delhi, pp. 84 [1]
  12. ^ a b Possehl, Gregory L. (2002), The Indus Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective, Rowman Altamira, p. 72, ISBN 978-0-7591-0172-2 Quote: "The site is about 17 meters in height. The southern face of the mounds is rather abrupt and steep. The northern side slopes down to the surrounding plain. The contours of the site have led the excavator to divide up the place into five mounds (RGR-1 through 5). RGR-6, a Sothi-Siswal site known as Arda, was probably a separate settlement. I have visited Rakhigarhi and believe that it is 80 hectares in size."
  13. ^ Coningham, Robin; Young, Ruth (2015), The Archaeology of South Asia: From the Indus to Asoka, c.6500 BCE–200 CE, Cambridge University Press, p. 183, ISBN 978-0-521-84697-4 Quote: Mohenjo-daro covered an area of more than 250 hectares, Harappa exceeded 150 hectares, Dholavira 100 hectares and Ganweriwala and Rakhigarhi around 80 hectares each."(p 183)
  14. ^ Kenoyer, Jonathan M. (1998), Ancient Cities of the Indus Valley Civilization, Oxford University Press, p. 49, ISBN 978-0-19-577940-0Quote: "Within a few hundred years the thriving town had grown six times larger, covering an area of over 1 50 hectares. ... civilization: Mohenjo-daro (+200 ha), Harappa (+ 150 ha), Ganweriwala and Rakhigarhi (+80 ha) and Dholavira (100 ha)"(page 49)
  15. ^ Allchin, F. R.; Erdosy, George (1995), The Archaeology of Early Historic South Asia: The Emergence of Cities and States, Cambridge University Press, p. 78, ISBN 978-0-521-37695-2 Quote: "Rakhigarhi at 80 hectares is the largest site followed by Banawali at 25 hectares."
  16. ^ Heitzman, James (2008), The City in South Asia, Routledge, p. 35, ISBN 1-134-28962-6 Quote: "They include Mohenjodaro (with a city core of about 100 hectares, and suburbs possibly covering more than 200 hectares) in Sind; Harappa (more than 150 hectares) in the center of Pakistani Punjab; Dholavira (more than 100 hectares) in Gujarat; Ganweriwala (82 hectares) in Pakistani Punjab near the border with Rajasthan; and Rakhigarhi (between 80 and 105 hectares) in Haryana."
  17. ^ "Bhirana oldest Harappan site, Rakhigarhi largest: ASI report".
  18. ^ "History What their lives reveal".
  19. ^ Subramanian, T. S. (27 March 2014). "Rakhigarhi, the biggest Harappan site". The Hindu. Retrieved 22 February 2016.
  20. ^ "Dig this! 5,000-yr-old skeletons found in Hisar". Hindustan Times. 15 April 2015.
  21. ^ "Virtual Harappans to come alive". The Hindu. 3 May 2015.
  22. ^ "Dig this! 5,000-yr-old skeletons found in Hisar". Hindustan Times. 15 April 2015.
  23. ^ a b c McIntosh, Jane R. (2008). The ancient Indus Valley : new perspectives. Santa Barbara, Calif.: ABC-CLIO. p. 293. ISBN 9781576079072.
  24. ^ "Ancient granary found in Haryana". The Hindu. 2 May 2014.
  25. ^ "Scientists to study parasite eggs in Harappan graves". The Times of India. 12 January 2014.
  26. ^ "Biomedical Studies on Archaeology". 19 February 2014.
  27. ^ "Former Archaeological Survey director sentenced to jail for fraud". Hindustan Times. 15 October 2015. Retrieved 6 January 2016.
  28. ^ "Rakhigarhi likely to be developed into a world heritage site". India Today. March 31, 2013. Retrieved 2013-08-08.
  29. ^ Archana, Khare Ghose (June 3, 2012). "Can Rakhigarhi, the largest Indus Valley Civilisation site be saved?". Sunday Times. Retrieved June 5, 2012.

Bibliography

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