The recent findings published in the Journal of Archaeological Science have highlighted the dietary habits of the Indus Valley civilization. The study, titled “Lipid residues in pottery from Indus Civilisation in northwest India,” reveals that meat was a significant part of the diet of the people of the Indus Valley Civilization, with a particular emphasis on beef consumption.
Dietary Habits of the Indus Valley Civilization
The research focused on the lipid residue analysis discovered in pottery from various sites like Alamgirpur (Meerut), Uttar Pradesh Haryana: Masudpur, LohariRagho, Rakhigarhi city (Hisar) Khanak (Bhiwani), and Farmana town(Rohtak). The findings show that animal products such as meat of pigs, cattle, buffalo, sheep, and goat, along with dairy products, dominated the diet in both rural and urban areas. The majority of the animal bones found were from cattle/buffalo, averaging between 50-60%, with sheep/goat accounting for 10% of discovered animal remains. This high proportion of cattle bones may suggest a cultural preference for beef consumption, supplemented by mutton/lamb.
Livestock Management in the Indus Valley Civilization
At Harappa, most cattle lived until three or three-and-a-half years old, implying that females were primarily used for dairy production, and males were employed for traction. Such evidence suggests advanced livestock management practices amongst the population.
Previous Research on Dietary Habits
This new study brings fresh insights into the food habits of the Indus Valley civilization, as previous studies have predominantly focused on their cropping systems.
Overview of the Indus Valley Civilization
Established around 3300 BC, the Indus Valley Civilization thrived between 2600 BC and 1900 BC before starting to decline around 1900 BC and ultimately disappearing around 1400 BC. Also known as the Harappan Civilization, this society extended from Sutkagengor (Baluchistan) in the West to Alamgirpur (Western UP) in the East, and from Mandu (Jammu) in the North to Daimabad (Ahmednagar, Maharashtra) in the South.
Urban Planning and Cultural Aspects
Indus Valley cities showcased a level of complexity and development unparalleled by other contemporary civilizations. Most cities showed similar patterns and had both a citadel and a lower town, suggesting a hierarchical societal structure. Agricultural practices, trade with the Sumerians, and metal products’ production were other essential aspects of their culture.
Religious Beliefs and Art Forms
While there are no known temple structures, the people worshipped male and female deities. The civilization produced exquisite works of art, including the famous ‘Dancing Girl’ statuette and the ‘Bearded Priest-King’ figure.
Pottery and Writing System
In addition to dietary practices, the pottery from the Indus Valley civilization offers insight into their artistic prowess with beautiful pieces of red pottery designed in black. Despite these advances, the civilization’s script remains undeciphered, adding an element of mystery to this ancient culture.
