History & Civics
Evaluate the significance of the Great Bath in Mohenjodaro as a reflection of Harappan engineering skills and its possible religious or social implications.
Answer
The Great Bath at Mohenjodaro is a large, watertight structure, measuring 12 meters long, 7 meters wide, and 2.5 meters deep. Surrounded by galleries and rooms, it was likely used for ritualistic purposes, possibly for purification. The pool was fed by a nearby well and had a drainage system to discharge dirty water. The hummam (hot air bath) near the southwest corner adds to its significance. The bath’s durability over 5,000 years highlights the advanced engineering and architectural skills of the Harappans in creating long-lasting, functional public spaces.
Related Questions
The Harappan Civilisation contributed greatly to art and craft. Discuss examples like the "Dancing Girl" statue and the painted pot from Lothal. How do these show their artistic skills and craftsmanship?
Our knowledge of the Harappan Civilisation is based on excavations carried out in North-Western India. Explain the evidence discovered with regard to the following points:
(a) The extent of this civilisation
(b) Commercial relations
(c) Buildings
How did the location of the Indus Valley help its trade?
Read the excerpt given below and answer the questions that follow:
"Among the painted designs, conventionalised vegetable patterns are common, and the elaborate geometric designs of the painted pottery of Baluchistan give way to simpler motifs, such as intersecting circles or a scale pattern. Birds, animals, fish, and more interesting scenes are comparatively rare."
(Source: https://www.britannica.com/topic/lndus-civi/ization/Craft-technology-and-artifacts)
(a) Describe the significance of pottery in Harappan culture.
(b) How do the designs on Harappan pottery provide insights into their aesthetic sense and daily life?