1.4 The Indus Civilisation

The Indus Civilisation represents the first phase of urbanisation in India. While the civilisation was in its peak, several cultures, namely, Mesolithic and Neolithic cultures that we discussed earlier in the chapter, prevailed in other parts of India. Nomenclature, Phases and Chronology The civilisation that appeared in the north- western part of India and Pakistan in third millennium BCE is collectively called the Indus Civilisation. Since Harappa was the first site to be identified in this civilisation, it is also known as Harappan Civilisation.

This civilisation did not appear all of a sudden. The beginnings of the Neolithic villages in this region go back to about BCE at the Neolithic site of Mehrgarh. Harappan culture is divided into various phases: Early India: From the Beginnings to the Indus Civilisation are identified as granary. The bricks were laid watertight with gypsum mortar.

It had drainage. It is associated with ritual bathing.