Indus Valley (Harappan and Saraswati)

3300 BCE - 1300 BCE

The Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world's earliest urban societies, thrived in the Indian subcontinent from approximately 3300 to 1300 BCE. Flourishing in the fertile lands of the Indus River, their cities, such as Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, showcased sophisticated urban planning, advanced drainage systems, and a thriving trade network. Though their written language remains undeciphered, their legacy is preserved in their intricate artifacts, seals, and evidence of a well-organized society with a thriving economy.

Culture

Major language groups and dialects

The script used in the Indus Valley Civilization remains undeciphered, so information about the language is limited. Dravidian language.

Culture and cultural heritage

The Indus Valley Civilization left behind a legacy of urban planning, craftsmanship, and possibly a script yet to be deciphered.

Shared customary codes and values

Evidence suggests a sophisticated understanding of city planning, sanitation, and craftsmanship. Religion and ritual practices might have been significant, but specifics are not entirely known.

Common Etiquette rules

Social norms and customs are not fully understood, but respect for community leaders and adherence to certain cultural practices likely existed.

Common Dress code

imited evidence exists, but depictions in artifacts and statuettes suggest draped garments for both men and women, likely made of cotton or wool.

Art & Architecture

Known for well-planned cities with sophisticated drainage systems, grid-based street layouts, and impressive craftsmanship in pottery and sculpture.

Foods & Cuisine

Diet possibly included wheat, barley, pulses, and vegetables. Evidence of domesticated animals like cattle suggests meat consumption.

Common Customs, traditions and rituals

Some evidence suggests religious practices and rituals involving figurines and seals, but their exact significance remains uncertain.

Coming of Age Rites

In the Indus Valley Civilization, coming of age was likely marked by rituals reflecting their sophisticated urban culture and religious beliefs. Given the lack of specific historical records, the exact nature of these rituals is subject to interpretation. However, they may have involved ceremonies that symbolized the transition from childhood to adulthood, possibly linked to their understanding of astrology and the natural world. These rites could have included community gatherings, where the youth participated in traditional practices, showcasing their skills and readiness to take on adult responsibilities. The rituals might have also had a spiritual component, involving blessings from priests or participation in religious ceremonies, reflecting the deep integration of religion in their daily life.

Funerary and Memorial customs

Burial practices might have varied across regions, but some evidence of burial pits and grave goods has been found.

Common Taboos

Specific taboos are not well-documented, but religious or social norms likely existed.

Common Myths and Legends

Limited evidence exists about their mythology or legends, primarily due to the inability to decipher their script.

Historical figures

Due to limited written records, no specific historical figures are known from the Indus Valley Civilization.

Ideals

Beauty Ideals

Specific beauty ideals aren't extensively documented, but adornments like jewelry made of shells, beads, and metals were used. Statuettes depicting elaborate hairstyles and jewelry suggest an appreciation for grooming and decoration.

Gender Ideals

Roles aren't precisely defined, but women were likely involved in domestic tasks and might have played various roles in society, including religious functions.