The recent study on the DNA of skeletal remains excavated from the Rakhigarhi site in Haryana, the largest site of Indus Valley Civilization (IVC), offers intriguing insights into the origins of the people of the IVC. It refutes pre-existing theories suggesting Steppe pastoral or ancient Iranian farmer lineage, reaffirming instead the independent origin of the Harappan individuals. This study also dismisses hypotheses concerning mass migrations during the Harappan times from regions outside South Asia and brings to light evidence for a clear genetic continuum from the hunter-gatherer period to modern times.
An Independent Origin of Indus Valley Civilization
Contrary to prevailing theories, research indicates that the Harappan individuals were not descendants of Steppe pastoralists or ancient Iranian farmers. The DNA obtained from their skeletal remains lacks any genome from either of these origins. This significant finding supports the premise of an independent origin for the inhabitants of the IVC and necessitates a rethink of established migratory hypotheses.
No Evidence of External Mass Migration
The study goes on to refute the idea of large-scale migration during Harappan times from regions situated outside South Asia. The genetic material studied does not substantiate the occurrence of such mass movements into the subcontinent. This conclusion undercuts theories proposing that the residents of IVC are an amalgamation of genes from different migrant groups.
The Transition from Hunter-Gatherer Communities to Farming Societies
In addition to negating migration theories, the DNA study uncovers a distinct genetic continuity between Harappan individuals and their hunter-gatherer predecessors. This implies that the same hunter-gatherer communities gradually transitioned to agricultural societies, forming what is now known as the Harappan civilization. It commemorates the evolution of indigenous communities and debunks the notion of agricultural knowledge dissemination through western migrant farmers.
Development of the Harappan Farming Culture
The study strongly suggests that the process of agricultural development among Harappan societies was an endogenous phenomenon. The people of IVC evolved their unique farming culture without any significant influence from the farming cultures of the west.
Indus Valley Civilization: A Brief Overview
| Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Harappan Civilization (also known as Indus Valley Civilization) |
| Time Period | Around 2500 BC |
| Location | Contemporary Pakistan and Western India |
| Significance | One of the four ancient urban civilizations along with Egypt, Mesopotamia, and China |
| Major Cities Unearthed | Mohenjodaro and Harappa |
The Archaeological Excavations
The Archaeological Department of India undertook major excavations in the Indus valley during the 1920s. These efforts led to the discovery of the ruins of two old cities – Mohenjodaro and Harappa. These findings have played a crucial role in understanding the life and times of one of the world’s oldest civilizations.
