The Kalibangan Harappan Site is located in which among the following states of India?

The correct answer is Rajasthan.

Key Points

• Kalibangan is an important archaeological site of the Indus Valley Civilization located in the state of Rajasthan, India.
• The site is situated along the left bank of the Ghaggar (ancient Sarasvati) river in Hanumangarh district.
• Kalibangan is known for its significant contribution to the study of protohistoric cultures in India.
• The excavations at Kalibangan have revealed both pre-Harappan and Harappan phases of occupation.

Additional Information

• Indus Valley Civilization (IVC)
  • The IVC, also known as Harappan Civilization, flourished in the northwestern regions of South Asia from 3300 BCE to 1300 BCE.
  • It was one of the three early cradles of civilization of the Old World, along with ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia.
  • The civilization is noted for its urban planning, baked brick houses, elaborate drainage systems, and water supply systems.
  • Key sites include Harappa, Mohenjo-Daro, and Lothal, among others.
• Excavations at Kalibangan
  • Kalibangan was first excavated by archaeologists B.B. Lal and B.K. Thapar in 1953.
  • The site revealed well-planned streets, fire altars, and unique pottery designs.
  • Evidence of an earthquake has been found, showing the resilience and rebuilding of the settlement.
  • The discovery of ploughed field patterns indicates advanced agricultural practices.
• Sarasvati River
  • Ancient texts and geological evidence suggest that the Sarasvati river once flowed in the region of modern-day Rajasthan.
  • It is believed that the river dried up around 2000 BCE, leading to the decline of several Harappan sites.
  • The Ghaggar-Hakra river system is considered by some scholars to be the remnants of the Sarasvati river.
• Pre-Harappan Phase
  • The pre-Harappan phase at Kalibangan dates back to 3500 BCE.
  • It is characterized by rudimentary mud-brick houses and basic pottery.
  • This phase provides insights into the early development of the Harappan culture.