Dholavira: 1 definition

Introduction:

Dholavira means something in the history of ancient India. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.

India history and geography

Source: Knowledge Traditions & Practices of India: Architecture (1): Early and Classical Architecture (h)

Dholavira (Gujarat) is an important archaeological site dating from the Harappan civilization.—Excavations at Harappa and Mohenjo-daro in 1921-22 marked the discovery of the Indus or Harappan civilization (2600–1900 BCE). Harappan cities (e.g., Dholavira) were planned, with the streets generally oriented along the cardinal directions. Houses were built with bricks of standardized proportions; some of the larger ones had at least an upper storey; roofs consisted of wooden structures covered with grass or leaves. Most houses had individual bathrooms connected to extensive drainage networks.

At Dholavira, a large and rigorously planned city located on an island in the Rann of Kachchh, stone was used to build massive fortifications, while a network of enormous reservoirs ensured water supply to the city through the year. The city was divided into upper town (consisting of Castle and Bailey, see plan below); middle town (where most habitations were located), which included a 283-metre-long ceremonial ground; and lower town. Dressed stone was used in construction along with mud bricks that conformed to Harappan standardized proportions. Stone pillars made of highly polished segments have also been found here.

India history book cover
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The history of India traces the identification of countries, villages, towns and other regions of India, as well as mythology, zoology, royal dynasties, rulers, tribes, local festivities and traditions and regional languages. Ancient India enjoyed religious freedom and encourages the path of Dharma, a concept common to Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism.

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