The Characteristics of the Mature Harappan Phase and Its Distinctions from the Early Harappan Phase
Introduction
The Harappan Civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, is typically divided into three main phases: Early Harappan, Mature Harappan, and Late Harappan. The Mature Harappan phase, spanning around 2600 to 1900 BCE, stands out with several distinct features that differentiate it from the earlier Early Harappan phase. This article explores these characteristics and highlights the key differences between the two phases.
Main Characteristics of the Mature Harappan Phase
Urban Planning
The cities during this phase, such as Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa, showcased advanced urban planning. Settlements featured grid layouts, well-organized streets, and sophisticated drainage systems. These cities were well-planned and organized, reflecting a high level of socio-political and economic development.
Architecture
The widespread use of standardized baked bricks for constructing buildings, warehouses, and public baths, exemplified by the Great Bath in Mohenjo-Daro, was prevalent. Structures were often multi-storied, accommodating both residential and public areas. This indicates a structured living environment and advanced construction techniques.
Economy
The mature Harappan economy was diverse and dynamic. Evidence of agriculture, trade, and craft specialization was evident. The people cultivated crops such as wheat, barley, and cotton, and engaged in extensive trade networks, including regions as far as Mesopotamia. The presence of granaries and standardized weights and measures also suggests a well-organized trade system.
Material Culture
A wide variety of artifacts, including pottery, seals, tools, and jewelry, reflected a high level of craftsmanship. These artifacts often depicted animals and script, suggesting administrative and commercial activities. This indicates a developed system of record-keeping and a complex social structure.
Social Organization
There is evidence of a complex social structure, possibly featuring centralized authority. This is indicated by the uniformity in weights and measures, and the presence of granaries. The society had a well-defined division of labor, suggesting a hierarchical structure.
Script
The use of the Indus script, which was found on seals and artifacts, although undeciphered, suggests a developed administrative and commercial system. This script indicates a high level of literacy and organization.
Religious Practices
Evidence of religious practices, including the worship of fertility deities and a proto-Shiva figure, as indicated by certain figurines and seals, suggests the presence of a significant religious or mythological system.
Differences from the Early Harappan Phase
Settlement Patterns
The Early Harappan phase, circa 3300 to 2600 BCE, featured smaller and less organized settlements. In contrast, the Mature Harappan phase saw the emergence of large, well-planned urban centers. This transition from simpler, scattered habitation to organized and ample urban centers signifies a significant shift in societal organization and economic activity.
Architectural Techniques
Early Harappan architecture was more rudimentary, using mud-brick and thatched structures. The mature Harappan phase, however, utilized fired bricks and more durable, advanced construction methods. This improvement reflects a sophisticated understanding of engineering and building techniques.
Economic Development
The Early Harappan economy was based on subsistence agriculture and local trade. The Mature Harappan phase, by contrast, exhibited extensive trade networks and a more sophisticated economic system, with craft specialization. This indicates a more developed market economy and a broader social and economic network.
Cultural Artifacts
Artifacts from the Early Harappan phase are less diverse and complex in comparison to the wealth of materials found in the Mature Harappan phase. The latter includes finely crafted goods and a broader variety of artistic expressions, suggesting a higher level of cultural advancement and creativity.
Social Complexity
While the Early Harappan phase showed signs of emerging social hierarchies, the Mature Harappan phase indicates a more complex society with a clear division of labor and possibly centralized governance. This suggests a more developed and structured society.
Conclusion
Overall, the Mature Harappan phase represents a peak in the development of the Indus Valley Civilization, characterized by advanced urbanization, economic complexity, and social organization. It sets this phase apart from the simpler, more localized Early Harappan phase, showcasing significant advancements in technology, economy, and governance.