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Srishti MishraAIR 95· 2023

Question 12GS1GS1

How has Harappan Civilization, spanning the Indo-Pakistan region, is one of the oldest and grandest cultures, having those of Sumer and Mesopotamia. Does the civilization Harappan contribute to Indian culture. Explain reasons for gradual decline.

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AnswerStrengthsGapsKeywords

Introduction

The Harappan civilization, spanning the Indo-Pakistan region, is one of the oldest and grandest cultures Religion and social features of Harappan civilization Economy and Urbanization features of Harappan civilization

29 words

Main Body

The Harappan civilization, spanning the Indo-Pakistan region, is one of the oldest and grandest cultures, having those of Sumer and Mesopotama.

Harappan's Statue Decline:

1Unknown natured end of the culture
2Natural factors could be earthquake disruption of entire culture
3anthropogenic factors - migration/Aryan invasion displaying the local culture

& Despite the end, Harappan civilization has left an indelible mark on Indian cultural evolution.

1Religion:
Worship of mother Goddess figure (made of burnt clay) is seen even today in Hinduism and tribal culture

eg: Goddess Lakshmi, worship of Saraswati, fertility of soil [eg: Saktahal]

Paralipati seal - depiction of it "Lord of Beasts" and nature / associated

eg: Lion worshipped amongst of Goddesses Shakthi

Diversity in religion-influence seen in Black mound
2Society:
The use of dance in devotion as well as secular culture

eg: dancing girl of Mohenjo-daro

Some exemplified in devdan system of Khala period.

Ornamentation - bangles, anklets, necklaces - still worn in tribal communities today.
3Economy & Urbanization:
Agriculture-based society - granaries and beds of black pottery for agricultural storage

=> India contribute to an agri-centric society

eg: harvest festivals like makassatma, Pongal, ethr.

Commidty et als the Great Gate - seen in traditions like Chetth Puja today

eg: construction of grand building to commemorate economic strength also seen in Vijaynagara aristocality, etc.

Thus Harappan civilization and its spirit was seen throughout the cultural evolution of the Indian subcontinent.

244 words10 paragraphs7 bullet points

Conclusion

Despite the end, Harappan civilization has left an indelible mark on Indian cultural evolution Thus Harappan civilization and its spirit was seen throughout the cultural evolution of the Indian subcontinent

30 words

Answer continues on next page
  • Acknowledges multiple theories for decline
  • Connects to broader Indian cultural evolution
  • Good use of archaeological examples
  • Clear connection between ancient and modern practices
  • Specific artifacts cited
  • Connects ancient practices to modern continuities
  • Good use of specific cultural practices as examples

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Page 29

Topper

Srishti Mishra

AIR 952023

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times

Pre Vedic

Harappan Civilization and Legacy

Writing Stats

303

Total words

10

Paragraphs

7

Bullets

analytical, examples-based

Tone