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The Indus Valley cities show a level of sophistication and advancement not seen in other contemporary civilizations.
Urban Features:
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Most cities had similar patterns.
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There were two parts:
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a citadel and
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the lower town showing presence of hierarchy in society.
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Most cities had a Great Bath.
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There were also granaries, 2-storied houses made of burnt bricks, closed drainage lines, excellent stormwater, and wastewater management system, weights for measurements, toys, pots, etc.
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A large number of seals have been discovered.
Agriculture:
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The first civilization to cultivate cotton.
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Animals were domesticated like sheep, goats, and pigs.
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Crops were wheat, barley, cotton, ragi, dates, and peas.
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Trade was conducted with the Sumerians (Mesopotamia).
Metal Products:
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These were produced including those with copper, bronze, tin, and lead. Gold and silver were also known.
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Iron was not known to them.
Religious Beliefs:
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No structures like temples or palaces have been found.
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The people worshipped male and female deities.
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A seal which was named ‘Pashupati Seal’ has been excavated and it shows an image of a three-eyed figure.
Pottery:
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Excellent pieces of red pottery designed in black have been excavated.
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Faience was used to make beads, bangles, earrings, and vessels.
Art Forms:
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A statuette named ‘Dancing Girl’ has been found from Mohenjodaro and is believed to be 4000 years old.
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A figure of a bearded Priest-King has also been found from Mohenjodaro.
Other Points:
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Lothal was a dockyard.
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Disposal of the dead was by burial in wooden coffins.
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The Indus Valley script has not yet been deciphered.