Rakhigarhi

Facts for Prelims

Rakhigarhi

News: DNA samples collected from two human skeletons unearthed at a necropolis of a Harappan-era city site in Rakhigarhi, Haryana have been sent for scientific examination.
• DNA analysis might tell about the ancestry and food habits of people who lived in the Rakhigarhi region thousands of years ago.

About:
• It is a 5,000-year-old site that showcases continuity from the Harappan age to the present times. The village also has havelis that are a couple of hundred years old.
• The site is located in the Sarasvati river plain, some 27 km from the seasonal Ghaggar river.
• Seven mounds are located here. The site has yielded various stages of Harappan culture and is by far one of the largest Harappan sites in India.

Major Findings:
• Findings confirm both early and mature Harappan phases and include 4,600-yearold human skeletons, fortification and bricks.
• Digging so far reveals a well-planned city with 1.92 m wide roads, a bit wider than in Kalibangan.
• Pits surrounded by walls have been found, which are thought to be for sacrificial or some religious ceremonies.
• There are brick-lined drains to handle sewage from the houses.
• Terracotta statues, weights, bronze artefacts, comb, copper fish hooks, needles and terracotta seals have also been found.
• Fire altars structures were revealed in Rakhigarhi.