The Sarasvati-Sindhu Civilization: Extent and Legacy
Historical accounts of the Indus Valley Civilization often focus on a singular identifier, integrating a rich tapestry of cultural and geographical elements into a cohesive narrative. However, it is essential to recognize that the true extension and heritage of this ancient civilization are broader and more multifaceted. The Sarasvati-Sindhu Civilization, named after the Sarasvati and the Sindhu (also known as Indus) rivers, offers a deeper understanding of the scope and influence of this civilization.
The Disappearance and Reconstruction
Contrary to the popular belief of a disappearing Indus Valley Civilization, there is substantial evidence that this civilization has endured. The Sarasvati-Sindhu Civilization was once a vibrant and expansive culture, but it faced significant challenges. Approximately 8,000 years ago, the Sarasvati River, known for its mighty width of 8 kilometers, faced a catastrophic tectonic event. As a result, the Yamuna River shifted its course and joined the Ganga, while the Sutlej River diverted towards the west and merged with the Sindhu (Indus) River. This geographical transformation led to the desiccation of the region, forcing people to migrate in all directions, carrying with them their rich cultural heritage and philosophical principles.
Today, the legacy of the Sarasvati-Sindhu Civilization is evident in the nation of Bharat/Hindustan, more commonly known as India. The cultural and social features of this ancient civilization are deeply embedded in the lives of Indians today. People wear turbans, women wear bangles, and floor drawings known as Kolam continue to be a part of their daily routines. Moreover, the symbolic significance of the swastika and the holy Om is retained, and even the act of cleaning floors with cow dung water has roots in the Indus Valley traditions.
The Extent and Influence
The Indus Valley Civilization, also known as the Harappan civilization, has been discovered across the regions of present-day Pakistan and northwestern India. During its mature phase, which spanned a larger area than the combined territories of the Egyptian and Babylonian civilizations, the Indus Valley Civilization covered an extensive area. However, the true extent of this civilization is often not fully appreciated.
Archaeologists have found evidence of the pre-Harappan period, from around 7,000 BC, in Mehrgarh in western Afghanistan and Birrana in eastern Haryana. This period extended up to the Danube River Valley in Bulgaria in southern Europe, and its southern extremity reached the submerged Kumarikkandam of the Tamils in the Indian Ocean. The Mature Indus Valley Civilization is well-documented in textbooks, but what has not been brought to the forefront is its cultural and social influence throughout India. Many contemporary practices and symbols are reflections of the Indus Valley traditions.
The Legacy Continues
Today, the Sarasvati-Sindhu Civilization's legacy is alive and well in India. From the continued use of Indus signs as tattoo marks to the embedding of Kolam drawings in daily life, the influence of this ancient civilization is hard to overlook. The swastika and Om are still deeply significant symbols, and the practice of cow dung water for cleansing floors reflects a direct connection to Indus Valley traditions. These elements serve as a reminder of the enduring influence of the Sarasvati-Sindhu Civilization on the modern Indian civilization.
The Sarasvati-Sindhu Civilization is not only a historical landmark but a testament to the resilience and adaptability of human culture. Its legacy continues to shape the Indian identity, making it a crucial part of the nation's rich heritage.