Which of the following civilizations in Sindhu was known as 'Pile of the Dead'?
Mohenjodaro
Understanding the 'Pile of the Dead' in Sindhu Civilization
The question asks about a specific site within the Sindhu or Indus Valley Civilization that is known by the name 'Pile of the Dead'. Let's examine the options provided to identify this significant archaeological site.
Analyzing the Options
- Egyptian Civilization: This civilization developed along the Nile River in Egypt. It is distinct from the Indus Valley Civilization and not located in the Sindhu region. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
- Harappan Civilization: This term is often used synonymously with the Indus Valley Civilization, referring to the entire culture and its sites, including Harappa and Mohenjo-daro. While Harappa is a major site, the nickname 'Pile of the Dead' refers to a different specific location.
- Mesopotamia: This ancient civilization flourished in the region of present-day Iraq, between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. It is geographically separate from the Indus Valley Civilization and therefore incorrect.
- Mohenjodaro: Mohenjo-daro is one of the largest and most important sites of the Indus Valley Civilization, located in the Sindh province of Pakistan (part of the historical Sindhu region). The name "Mohenjo-daro" itself means "Mound of the Dead" or "Pile of the Dead" in the Sindhi language. This name was given to the site due to the discovery of multiple mounds and skeletal remains found there during its excavation.
Identifying the Correct Site
Based on the historical and archaeological information, the site known as the 'Pile of the Dead' is Mohenjodaro. Its name directly reflects this fact.
| Civilization/Site | Location | Known As 'Pile of the Dead'? |
|---|---|---|
| Egyptian Civilization | Nile Valley | No |
| Harappan Civilization | Indus River Valley (Overall) | No (refers to the whole civilization) |
| Mesopotamia | Tigris and Euphrates Valley | No |
| Mohenjodaro | Indus River Valley (Specific site) | Yes (Mound of the Dead) |
Conclusion
The civilization site in the Sindhu or Indus Valley known as 'Pile of the Dead' is Mohenjodaro.
Revision Table: Key Indus Valley Sites
| Site | Modern Location | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Harappa | Punjab, Pakistan | First site excavated, type site for the civilization. |
| Mohenjo-daro | Sindh, Pakistan | Largest known site, well-planned city, Great Bath, College building, known as 'Mound of the Dead'. |
| Kalibangan | Rajasthan, India | Evidence of ploughed field, fire altars. |
| Lothal | Gujarat, India | Port city, evidence of dockyard. |
| Dholavira | Gujarat, India | Unique water management system, three parts of the city. |
Additional Information on Mohenjo-daro
Mohenjo-daro was a major urban center of the Indus Valley Civilization, flourishing around 2500 BCE. It is renowned for its sophisticated urban planning, including:
- A grid layout of streets.
- An elaborate drainage system.
- Standardized brick sizes.
- Large public buildings like the Great Bath and the granary.
The name 'Mohenjo-daro' is not the original name used by the people who lived there, as the Indus script is yet to be deciphered. The current name is based on the meaning in the local Sindhi language when the site was rediscovered in the early 20th century.
Important Questions from Prehistoric period
Which one among the following Harappan towns was almost exclusively devoted to craft production:
Who had firstly discovered the rock paintings of Chitwadongri in Chhattisgarh?
Which are the two Indus valley sites, having evidence of cultivation of rice, which may possibly the oldest ?
1. Amri
2. Koldihwa
3. Mehargarh
4. Gumla
Select the answer from the codes given below :
Consider the following pairs:
(Historical Place) : (Well known for)
1. Burzahom : Rock cut shrines
2. Chandra ketugarh : Terracotta art
3. Ganeshwar : Copper artefacts
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
Which one of the following ancient towns is well known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management by building a series of dams and channelizing water into connected reservoirs?
