Understanding the Aryan Invasion Theory
The Aryan Invasion Theory (AIT) posits that Indo-Aryan people migrated into the Indian subcontinent, leading to significant cultural and linguistic changes. Among various archaeological findings, certain evidence from the Indus Valley Civilization (IVC) sites has been cited to support this theory.
Evidence from IVC Sites
One of the pieces of evidence often discussed is the discovery of broken terracotta figures:
Terracotta Figures
- Cultural Disruption: The presence of broken terracotta figures in IVC sites suggests a period of cultural disruption. These artifacts might signify violent confrontations or societal upheaval.
- Symbolism of Conflict: The damaged state of these figures could represent the decline of the existing civilization due to external invasions. This aligns with the idea that Aryans, as invaders, might have played a role in the collapse of the IVC.
Other Evidence Considered
While option 'C' highlights broken terracotta figures, other artifacts like horse chariots, iron weapons, and dead bodies have also been considered:
- Horse Chariot: A symbol of mobility and warfare, it was crucial for the nomadic Aryans but not found prominently in IVC.
- Iron Weapons: The IVC civilization was known for its bronze technology, and the advent of iron weapons correlates with later developments rather than direct evidence of invasion.
- Dead Bodies: While the discovery of dead bodies can indicate conflict, they do not directly imply invasion and may reflect local societal issues.
Conclusion
Overall, the broken terracotta figures serve as a tangible connection to the idea of cultural disruption and possible conflict, providing a nuanced understanding of the Aryan Invasion Theory as it relates to the archaeological record of the Indus Valley Civilization.