Harappan Site Devoted to Craft Production Identified

The question asks us to identify a specific Harappan (Indus Valley Civilization) site that was primarily focused on craft production. This includes activities like bead making, shell processing, and metal working.

Chanhudaro: A Hub for Harappan Crafts

Among the known Harappan sites, Chanhudaro stands out as a significant center for specialized craft activities. Archaeological evidence strongly suggests that this settlement was largely dedicated to manufacturing various goods.

• Bead Making: Chanhudaro was a major production center for beads made from semi-precious stones like carnelian, agate, jasper, and steatite.
• Shell Processing: The site yielded numerous artifacts indicating extensive work with shells, used for making bangles, pendants, and other ornaments.
• Metal Working: Evidence of metal working, including the casting and working of copper and bronze tools and objects, has also been found at Chanhudaro.
• Pottery: High-quality pottery was also produced here.

Unlike larger Harappan cities like Mohenjo-daro or Harappa, Chanhudaro appears to have been more specialized, focusing heavily on industrial and craft activities rather than being a major administrative or residential center.

Comparing Other Sites

Let's briefly consider the other options:

• Kalibangan: While an important Harappan site, Kalibangan is more known for its evidence of a ploughed field, fire altars, and distinct pottery styles. It wasn't primarily recognized as a dedicated craft production center in the same way as Chanhudaro.
• Banawali: This site is noted for its unique town planning (both radial and grid patterns) and finds like a terracotta plough model. It also had Harappan and pre-Harappan phases, but extensive craft specialization isn't its defining characteristic.

Based on the archaeological focus on specialized industries, particularly bead making, shell processing, and metal working, Chanhudaro is the most fitting answer.