Context:
Recently, the President of India, visited the UNESCO World Heritage Site Dholavira in Gujarat.
- The President’s visit to Dholavira emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about its historical value and preserving India’s ancient heritage
About Dholavira
- The site is located on the arid island of Khadir in Kachchh, Gujrat.
- It is situated between two seasonal rivers the Mansar to the north and the Manhar to the south.
- It is a significant and well-preserved archaeological site, showcasing the architectural and engineering brilliance of the Harappan people.
- It demonstrates advanced town planning, including sophisticated water conservation systems, well-structured reservoirs, and urban settlements.
- In 2021, Dholavira was inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site List, gaining international recognition.
- The site attracts scholars, archaeologists, and history enthusiasts from around the world.
- Excavated by the Archaeological Survey of India from 1990 to 2005 under Dr. Ravindra Singh Bisht’s supervision.
- The excavations revealed habitation across seven cultural phases from 3000-1500 BCE, providing new insights into the Harappan Civilization.
- The site offers a better understanding of the relationship between the Harappan Civilization and other Bronze Age civilizations of the 3rd Millennium BCE.
- Dholavira is divided into three parts:
- Raj Mahal: The residence of the Raja, located at a height and surrounded by strong fortifications with four gates.
- Habitat of officers: Protected by a wall, containing two to five rooms for the officers.
- Common dwellings: Brick-built houses for the town’s common residents.
- A large pearl-making factory has been discovered in the town.
- Copper distilleries were found in fossils from the area.