THE APPROACH
THE INTRODUCTION: Introduce briefly about evolution of architecture since Harappan era.
THE BODY
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- Mention about the various key features of Harappan architecture.
THE CONCLUSION: Conclude by showing how Harappan architecture showcases the highly structured and advanced society.
THE INTRODUCTION:
Harappan showcases the early elements of Indian architecture and served as architectural model for Indian subcontinent. It is distinguished by its unique, pragmatic, efficient design and advanced urban planning.
THE BODY
The salient features of the Harappan architecture includes:
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- Town planning: Harappan architecture followed remarkable town planning. For example, cities like Mohenjo-Daro, followed a grid pattern intersecting at right angles to divide the city into rectangular blocks.
- Division of towns: Harappan towns are majorly divided into two main sections. First, Citadel, housing elite section and Second, Lower town which was residential area for majority of the population. For example, most mature Harappan cities as Rakhigarhi and Kalibangan, were divided into two main sections.
- Uniformity: One of the most impressive features of the Harappan architecture is the uniformity across different levels. Cities like Mohenjo-daro and Harappa featured a consistent architecture indicating a centralized economic or administrative infrastructure.
- Existence of Public buildings: Harappan cities had existence of various public buildings. For example, Harappan cities had strategically placed wells to ensure a constant water supply and large granaries for grain storage and there was structure like Great Bath in Mohenjo-Daro.
- Residential Architecture: Another common theme across Harappan cities was prevalence of residential architecture. For example, houses under the Harappan architecture were typically built around a central courtyard and featured multiple rooms.
- Efficient drainage system: Another prominent feature of Harappan architecture was the efficient drainage suggesting a strong concern for public health and hygiene. A key example of the Harappan drainage system is the network of brick-lined, covered street drains with regular inspection holes found in cities like Mohenjo-daro and Harappa.
- Lack of Grand Structures: Harappan architecture focussed more on practical and communal spaces rather than grand structures. For example, Harappans avoided building grand structures like palaces or temples and rather there was existence of water reservoir at Dholavira and Dockyard at Lothal as communal spaces.
THE CONCLUSION:
Thus, Harappan architecture focussed on creation of well organised and functional eco system. It showcases the highly structured and advanced society of the contemporary civilisation.
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