Mohenjodaro?s Dancing Girl

Mohenjodaro’s Dancing Girl

News: The Dancing Girl figurine discovered in Mohenjodaro in 1926 recently found itself at the centre of controversy. It was the mascot of recently held International Museum Expo 2023.

About:
 It was discovered in 1926 (by British archaeologist Ernest McKay) during excavations at Mohenjodaro, a major site of the Indus Civilization.
 The 4,500 years old bronze figurine, just 10.5 cm in height, is dark and completely in the nude with the exception of multiple bangles and a necklace.
 The Dancing Girl is evidence of the civilisation’s knowledge of metal blending and lost-wax casting – a complicated process by which a duplicate sculpture is cast from an original sculpture to create highly detailed metallic artefacts.
 It strikes a pose with a hand on her hip, legs slightly forward, and a lively and spirited stance.
 Historians differ in interpreting the figurine’s purpose: some consider her a dancer, while others suggest she could represent a woman carrying an offering.
 The figurine is an object of symbolic and aesthetic value, highlighting the presence of high art in Harappan society.
 The Dancing Girl is a significant artefact of the Indus Civilization, offering insights into the artistic and cultural practices of the time.
 Even though Mohenjodaro and Harappa became part of Pakistani territory after the Partition, the Dancing Girl remained in India as part of an agreement.