Bricks, Beads and Bones (The Harappan Civilization) — Important Questions

Wheat, Barley, Lentil, Chickpea, Sesame

Archaeological evidence shows that Harappans grew wheat, barley, lentil, chickpea, and sesame. Rice finds are relatively rare, suggesting it was not a major crop. Millets were found at sites in Gujarat.

Grid pattern streets, Sophisticated drainage system, Standardized brick sizes, Houses with courtyards

Harappan cities showed excellent urban planning with grid pattern streets, sophisticated drainage systems, standardized bricks (length and breadth were four times and twice the height), and houses centered around courtyards. Cities were not circular in layout.

Craft production

Chanhudaro was a small settlement almost exclusively devoted to craft production, including bead-making, shell-cutting, metal-working, seal-making, and weight-making. It was a specialized manufacturing center.

Cattle, Buffalo, Sheep, Goat, Pig

Archaeological evidence shows that Harappans domesticated cattle, buffalo, sheep, goat, and pig. Deer bones are also found, but these were wild animals that were probably hunted rather than domesticated.