What was a notable find at Dholavira that differed from typical Harapp...
In other harappan cities , the writings were written on small objects such as seals .
What was a notable find at Dholavira that differed from typical Harapp...
Notable Discovery at Dholavira
The archaeological site of Dholavira, located in the arid region of Gujarat, India, has yielded significant insights into the Harappan civilization. Among its notable finds, the large letters of the Harappan script stand out as a unique discovery.
Unique Aspects of the Find
- Size and Visibility:
- The large letters discovered at Dholavira are distinct from the smaller seals and inscriptions commonly found at other Harappan sites. These letters, carved on stone, are much larger and designed to be conspicuous.
- Context of Use:
- The letters were likely part of a public display, possibly serving as markers or signage within the city. This suggests a different use of writing than what is typically observed in the Harappan context, where seals were primarily used for trade and administrative purposes.
- Communication and Administration:
- The presence of large script indicates a more organized system of communication, potentially aimed at a broader audience, as opposed to the more private or commercial inscriptions found elsewhere.
Comparison with Typical Harappan Findings
- Seals and Sealings:
- While seals are prevalent in Harappan sites, they serve specific functions related to trade and do not exhibit the same visibility or public engagement as the large letters.
- Stone Objects for Public Ceremonies:
- Although ceremonial objects have been found, they do not focus on written communication.
- Raw Materials:
- The discovery of semi-precious stones is common across many sites and does not pertain to the linguistic aspects that the large letters represent.
Significance of the Discovery
The large letters at Dholavira provide a profound understanding of the Harappan civilization's communication methods, reflecting a sophisticated approach to public expression and administration, thereby differing significantly from typical Harappan writing discoveries.