Harappan Archaeology in Gujarat: Discoveries and Perspectives

Dr. Rajesh S. V. (University of Kerala) & Dr. Abhayan G. S. (University of Kerala) donneront une conférence dans le cadre du séminaire de Sorbonne Université « Actualité de la recherche archéologique en Orient » (M2AA51AR/HA, M4AA51AR/HA)
le mercredi 19 février 2025 de 9h à 11h à l’Institut National d’Histoire de l’Art (2, rue Vivienne, 75002 Paris, salle André Chastel)
et en distanciel via le lien suivant : https://zoom.us/j/94216578157.

Gujarat holds a position of great significance in Harappan archaeological research, with investigations dating back to the 1930s. Over the decades, extensive explorations and excavations have led to the identification of more than 800 sites, spanning the Early, Mature, and Late Harappan phases, approximately dated between 3900 and 1000 BCE. These sites include major urban and fortified settlements such as Dholavira, Lothal, Bagasra, Khirsara, Juni Kuran, Surkotada, Shikarpur, Kanmer, Desalpur, Kotda Bhadli, Lodrani, Pabumath, Jaidak, Babarkot, and Nadapa, along with key cemetery sites like Juna Khatiya and Dhaneti.

Additionally, smaller settlements such as Kanewal, Jokha, Dhatwa, Loteshwar, Nagwada, Nageswar, Padta Bet, Navinal, Rojdi, Rangpur, Somnath, Amra, Datrana, Zekhda, Janan, Gajod, and Lakhapar further contribute to the region’s rich archaeological landscape. The material culture from these sites reflects both Classical Harappan traditions and distinctive regional Chalcolithic influences. Notable ceramic traditions include the Anarta tradition, Padri Ware, Pre-Prabhas Assemblage, Early Harappan Sindh-type ceramics, Black and Red Ware, Reserved Slip Ware, Micaceous Red Ware, Sorath Harappan, Prabhas Ware, Late Sorath Harappan, Lustrous Red Ware, Malwa Ware and Jorwe Ware. Structural remains and associated artifacts provide valuable insights into settlement patterns, trade networks, and cultural interactions within the Harappan civilization. This paper traces the evolution of Harappan research in Gujarat, analyzing findings from key sites, their chronological frameworks, and their broader implications for understanding the changes and regional variability of the Harappan civilization. The archaeological evidence highlights Gujarat’s role in shaping the cultural and economic dynamics of the Indus civilization.