Harappan Civilization : Homogeneity and Heterogeneity

Contents: 1. Introductory chapter. 2. Antecedents. 3. Architecture. 4. Origins: theoretical considerations. 5. Artistic activities. 6. Clay figurines. 7. Glyptic art. 8. Copper tablets. 9. Lapidary art. 10. Metallurgy. 11. Miscellaneous objects. 12. Religion. 13. Dress and ornaments. 14. Entertainment. 15. Trade. 16. Script. 17. Chronology. 18. Burial customs. 19. End. 20. Concluding remarks. Appendices. Bibliography. Index.

"The book opens with a discussion on the historiography of the Harappan archaeology. One chapter, conventionally, incorporates a discrete review of the relevant pottery typologies. Details of selective important sites are given for discerning readers. Separate independent chapters deal the art, architecture, craft activities/specialisations, trade and chronology, in the light of fresh researches.

The volume critically evaluates or enumerates the homogeneity thesis; and elaborates upon the heterogeneity enshrined in differential growth of the Harappan civilization. Dynamic forces of convergence and multiplication intertwined to produce the unique cultural ethos, with regional variations. The cohesiveness was, in the main, provided by closely interacting (communicating) diverse settlement matrices. The civilization also prospered in harsher (semi-arid) conditions; and the concerted agricultural innovations ensured steady supply of, even, surplus grains. The \'arrested\' Harappan urbanisation, laced with continued strong rural flavour, acted both as cause and effect when viewed as coordinated processes." (jacket)