An inscription comprising ten large sized signs of Harappan script was found at:
Dholavira
Understanding the Harappan Script and Key Sites
The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, was a Bronze Age civilization in the northwestern regions of South Asia. Archaeological excavations at various sites associated with this civilization have unearthed numerous artifacts, including examples of the mysterious Harappan script. While this script has not been fully deciphered, discoveries related to its form and context are highly significant for understanding the civilization.
The Discovery of the Large Harappan Inscription
One of the most notable findings related to the Harappan script is an inscription composed of ten large signs. This particular discovery is unique because of the size and arrangement of the signs, suggesting it might have served a public purpose, perhaps like a signboard or a public notice. Locating where such a significant artifact was found is crucial for historical and archaeological study.
Let's examine the options provided:
- Banawali: An important Harappan site in Haryana, India, known for its well-planned town structure and fortifications, but not primarily for a large inscription of ten signs.
- Kot Diji: An early Harappan site in Sindh, Pakistan, providing evidence of pre-Indus and Indus phases, but not associated with this specific inscription.
- Dholavira: A major Harappan city site in Gujarat, India, known for its sophisticated water management system, large reservoirs, and unique architectural features.
- Kalibangan: A prominent Harappan site in Rajasthan, India, known for its fire altars and ploughed field evidence, but not for the ten-sign inscription.
The inscription comprising ten large sized signs of the Harappan script, often referred to as the "Dholavira Signboard," was indeed discovered at the archaeological site of Dholavira.
Dholavira: Location of the Ten-Sign Harappan Inscription
The discovery at Dholavira provides valuable insight into the possible public display or use of the Harappan script within their urban centers. The large size of the signs on this inscription makes it distinct from the smaller inscriptions typically found on seals or pottery.
| Harappan Site | Key Finding (Related to Script/Town Planning) |
|---|---|
| Banawali | Barley, oval-shaped settlement |
| Kot Diji | Pre-Indus occupation evidence |
| Dholavira | Ten large Harappan script signs, water reservoirs, multi-layered town planning |
| Kalibangan | Ploughed field, fire altars |
Based on archaeological evidence, the site where the inscription comprising ten large sized signs of Harappan script was found is Dholavira.
Revision Table: Harappan Sites and Discoveries
| Harappan Site | Significant Findings |
|---|---|
| Banawali | Evidence of both pre-Harappan and Harappan culture, toy ploughs, barley, lack of drainage system in early phase. |
| Kot Diji | Fortified citadel and lower town, evidence of destruction by fire, wheel-made pottery. |
| Dholavira | Divided into three parts (citadel, middle town, lower town), large water reservoirs, unique gate systems, and the famous inscription of ten large Harappan signs. |
| Kalibangan | Evidence of pre-Harappan ploughed field, fire altars (suggesting ritualistic practices), cylindrical seals. |
Additional Information about the Harappan Script and Dholavira
The Harappan script remains one of the great mysteries of this civilization. It is generally believed to be logosyllabic, meaning signs represent words or syllables. The inscription at Dholavira is significant because it's found in a context suggesting public visibility, unlike most inscriptions on seals which were likely used for administrative or personal purposes.
Dholavira itself is a remarkable site, showcasing the advanced urban planning of the Harappans, particularly their sophisticated water harvesting techniques adapted to the arid environment of Kutch, Gujarat. The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021.
Important Questions from Prehistoric period
Which of the followings was NOT a Harappan city?
What is the first age in the prehistoric period called?
Which of the following statements about the Indus Valley Civilization is NOT true?
In which of the following Indus Valley Civilisation sites was the ‘Great Bath’ discovered?
The Harappan site Rangpur is located in the present Indian state of __________.
