Harappan culture, also known as the Indus Valley civilization, was a Bronze Age society that

thrived in the northwestern regions of South Asia between 2500 and 1900 BCE. Harappa
was the first city to be excavated, hence the name Harappan civilization. This civilization
was once considered a subsidiary of the Mesopotamian culture; nevertheless,
archaeological findings proved this conviction a fallacy.

Some scholars are of the belief that Harappan culture, actually precedes the
Mesopotamian civilization by two hundred years1. However, researchers have drawn a
clear-cut finding that ancient urban civilization in Indus developed autonomously. Hitherto,
the Indus Valley script remains inexplicable. Nonetheless, the copious seals uncovered by
researchers, pottery and the ancient ruins of Indus Valley cities, have assisted archaeologists
in amassing incisive accounts of the civilization.

The most primitive traces of Indus Valley civilization were discovered along the Indus river
after excavations were performed in the primeval cities of Mohenjodaro and Harappa. The
conclusion drawn out thereof, suggested a highly composite civilization which must have
developed around five hundred years ago.

Subsequent scholarly research carried out by historians has handed over more detailed
information on the Indus Valley and its dwellers2. The presumption is that the valley was
preoccupied by Dravidians, who might have been relocated by Aryans, endowed with
sophisticated armoury and military technology, as they relocated to India.

However, some scholars believe that the origins of Harappan culture can be traced back to the
Neolithic period, with the emergence of farming settlements in the region. Farmers began
migrating to the north and east of the Indus Valley around 6-7 thousand years ago,
establishing permanent settlements based on agriculture. In India , the earliest form of
settled agriculture dated back to the end of the 4th millenium around Baluchistan and
lower Sind3. These settlements gradually evolved into the urban centres of the Harappan
civilization. During its peak, the Harappan civilization displayed remarkable advancements in
urban planning, infrastructure, and trade. The Harappan culture is characterized by its urban
centres, which were meticulously planned and laid out on a grid system. These urban centres
were marked by large, well-built structures and an efficient sewage and drainage system. The
Harappan culture also exhibited a high level of craft specialization, with artisans producing
intricate pottery, jewellery, and metalwork.

Furthermore, the Harappan culture is known for its advanced agricultural practices, with
evidence of Gabarbands or nalas enclosed by dams for storing water in areas of
1. Daine & Sarah, 2010. p.213).
Daine, P. M. and Sarah, E. L. (2010). Everyday Life in South Asia.Pennyslivia: Indiana
University Press.
2 Thapar,1996. p.97). Thapar, R. N. (1996).Historical View Of India: (Vol 11). England: Penguin.
3,AL BASHAM pg11
4.RS sharma pg 78
5.RS ShaRMA PG 80
6. Giosan, Liviu, et al. Neoglacial climate anomalies and the Harappan metamorphosis.
7.Possehl, Gregory L. The Indus Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective. AltaMira
Press, 2002.
8.Wright, Rita P. The Ancient Indus: Urbanization, Economy, and Society.
Cambridge University Press, 2009.
9Kenoyer, Jonathan Mark. Ancient cities of the Indus Valley civilization. Oxford
University Press USA, 1998.
Baluchistan and Afghanistan however canal irrigation was probably not practised and
the cultivation of various crops such as wheat, barley, rice, and pulses.4 The Harappan
culture is widely recognized for its extensive trade networks within the Indus culture
zone as well as outside with Mesopotamia and Arabia, as indicated by the discovery of
Harappan seals and artefacts in these regions.5 The Harappan culture left behind a rich
archaeological record, providing valuable insights into the social, economic, and cultural
aspects of this ancient civilization.

One of the key aspects that contributed to its prosperity and growth was the extensive trade
network it established with neighbouring regions. This essay aims to explore the intricacies of
Harappan trade, examining its routes, commodities, economic significance, and the
mechanisms by which trade was conducted. By delving into the complexities of Harappan
trade, we gain valuable insights into the economic and social organization of this remarkable
ancient civilization.

Harappan Trade
The Harappan trade played a crucial role in the development and prosperity of the Harappan
civilization. It facilitated the exchange of goods and ideas between various regions, leading to
economic growth and cultural convergence. The Harappan society has been characterized by
shared principles of power and a lack of evidence of military conquests.

However, the full extent of Harappan complexity and social organization is subject to debate,
as scholars have proposed alternative models such as those presented by R Thapar and
Possehl. In order to better understand Harappan trade, it is necessary to analyze the available
sources and studies that shed light on this aspect of the civilization.

The study of the Harappan trade has been a subject of academic debate, with scholars offering
various perspectives based on archaeological evidence and historical sources. While some scholars
emphasize the intra-regional trade within Harappan settlements, others argue for the existence of
long-distance trade networks and trading colonies in distant lands. J.M. Kenoyer supports the idea of
trading colonies along the trade route, suggesting that if people were moving between regions, it is
likely that established trading colonies were present in different locations along the route.
Furthermore, Kenoyer speculates on the possibility of marriage exchanges being used to solidify
trade relations, which would have had implications for the spread of Harappan cultural elements in
Mesopotamia. On the other hand, there is evidence to support the existence of long-distance trade
and the establishment of Harappan trading colonies in faraway lands. For instance, the material

1. Daine & Sarah, 2010. p.213).

Daine, P. M. and Sarah, E. L. (2010). Everyday Life in South Asia.Pennyslivia: Indiana
University Press.
2 Thapar,1996. p.97). Thapar, R. N. (1996).Historical View Of India: (Vol 11). England: Penguin.
3,AL BASHAM pg11
4.RS sharma pg 78
5.RS ShaRMA PG 80
6. Giosan, Liviu, et al. Neoglacial climate anomalies and the Harappan metamorphosis.
7.Possehl, Gregory L. The Indus Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective. AltaMira
Press, 2002.
8.Wright, Rita P. The Ancient Indus: Urbanization, Economy, and Society.
Cambridge University Press, 2009.
9Kenoyer, Jonathan Mark. Ancient cities of the Indus Valley civilization. Oxford
University Press USA, 1998.
culture of the Harappans suggests contact with contemporaneous civilizations in Mesopotamia and
Egypt. The discovery of Indus-type stamp seals in southern Mesopotamia and the Persian Gulf area
suggests that Mesopotamian seafaring activities were directed towards the east. Additionally,
early explorations have identified Harappan outposts along the Makran coast, indicating the
prevalence of sea trade. These findings point towards the importance of sea trade routes for
Harappan commerce. Moreover, there is evidence of trade in valuable resources such as copper, tin,
and lapis lazuli, which were likely obtained through long-distance trade routes. This intensification of
interregional trade is supported by the discovery of nonlocal goods in Harappan settlements and
tombs, indicating the rapid exchange.For example, the Harappan polities expanded into regions
such as Kutch and Gujarat, around 400 km southeast of Mohenjo-daro, demonstrating their
engagement in trade with distant regions. Additionally, the establishment of colonial outposts
like Dabar Kot, Periano Ghundai, Manda, Rupar, and Lothal further illustrates the Harappan
civilization's involvement in long-distance trade. These trading colonies were likely
established along the trade routes to ensure a steady supply of valuable resources and goods
for the growing bureaucracies in Harappan urban centers.

Items of Trade
The Harappans engaged in a diverse range of trades, highlighting their economic prowess and
ability to harness the available resources. The availability of multiple raw materials, such as semi-
precious stones, metals like copper and gold, and agricultural products, allowed for a flourishing
trade economy. Urban centers, acting as hubs, specialized in different crafts and industries,
leading to the production of high-quality textiles, pottery, metalwork, and beadwork that were
coveted in the ancient world. These goods, found in abundance at Harappan sites like Lothal,
Dholavira, and Chanhu-daro, were exported to distant lands, further augmenting the civilization's
economic influence..

Items of Harappan Trade

1. Precious Stones and Metals: The Harappans were known for their mastery
in metallurgy and craftsmanship. They traded in various metals such as
copper, tin, and bronze, which were used to create tools, weapons, and
ornaments. Furthermore, the region was rich in semi-precious stones like
carnelian, agate, and lapis lazuli, which were highly sought after for making
jewelry and amulets (Possehl, 2002).

1. Daine & Sarah, 2010. p.213).

Daine, P. M. and Sarah, E. L. (2010). Everyday Life in South Asia.Pennyslivia: Indiana
University Press.
2 Thapar,1996. p.97). Thapar, R. N. (1996).Historical View Of India: (Vol 11). England: Penguin.
3,AL BASHAM pg11
4.RS sharma pg 78
5.RS ShaRMA PG 80
6. Giosan, Liviu, et al. Neoglacial climate anomalies and the Harappan metamorphosis.
7.Possehl, Gregory L. The Indus Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective. AltaMira
Press, 2002.
8.Wright, Rita P. The Ancient Indus: Urbanization, Economy, and Society.
Cambridge University Press, 2009.
9Kenoyer, Jonathan Mark. Ancient cities of the Indus Valley civilization. Oxford
University Press USA, 1998.
 2. Indus Valley Pottery: The Harappan civilization produced distinctive pottery
characterized by intricate designs and unique shapes. Their pottery was
widely traded and found as far as Mesopotamia. The clay pots, often featuring
painted motifs, were used for storage, cooking, and ceremonial purposes
(Kenoyer, 1991).

3. Textiles: The Harappans were skilled weavers and produced high-quality

cotton and wool textiles. Archaeological evidence suggests that these textiles
were traded extensively, possibly as far as ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia.
The fine quality of Harappan textiles was a testament to their advanced
craftsmanship (Mackay, 1938).

4. Seals and Seal Impressions: The Harappan civilization is famous for its
seals made from steatite and other materials. These seals featured intricate
engravings of animals, symbols, and inscriptions. They were likely used for
various administrative and trade-related purposes, as well as to mark goods
and documents (Parpola, 1994).

5. Agricultural Products: The fertile lands of the Indus Valley allowed for
surplus agricultural production. Wheat, barley, rice, and various legumes were
cultivated and traded. Agricultural surplus played a crucial role in sustaining
the urban centers of the Harappan civilization (Kenoyer, 2005).

6. Shell and Ivory Artifacts: The Harappans had access to marine resources,
and they utilized shells to craft jewelry, buttons, and other decorative items.
Ivory from elephants was also used for creating intricate carvings and
figurines, indicating trade connections with regions inhabited by these animals
(Possehl, 2002).

In addition to the material evidence listed above, there is also historical evidence to
support Harappan trade. For example, cuneiform tablets from Mesopotamia mention
a land called Meluha, which is thought to be the Harappan civilization. The tablets
also mention trade goods such as copper, ivory, and lapis lazuli being imported from
Meluha.

1. Daine & Sarah, 2010. p.213).

Daine, P. M. and Sarah, E. L. (2010). Everyday Life in South Asia.Pennyslivia: Indiana
University Press.
2 Thapar,1996. p.97). Thapar, R. N. (1996).Historical View Of India: (Vol 11). England: Penguin.
3,AL BASHAM pg11
4.RS sharma pg 78
5.RS ShaRMA PG 80
6. Giosan, Liviu, et al. Neoglacial climate anomalies and the Harappan metamorphosis.
7.Possehl, Gregory L. The Indus Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective. AltaMira
Press, 2002.
8.Wright, Rita P. The Ancient Indus: Urbanization, Economy, and Society.
Cambridge University Press, 2009.
9Kenoyer, Jonathan Mark. Ancient cities of the Indus Valley civilization. Oxford
University Press USA, 1998.
Mechanisms of Trade:
To facilitate trade, the Harappans developed efficient systems to regulate commerce and ensure
the smooth functioning of their extensive networks. The presence of well-planned urban
infrastructure, standardized weights, and measures, and an early form of script found on seals,
suggest an organized administrative system overseeing economic activities. The seals, often
depicting animals and symbols, served as markers of authenticity and could have been attached to
merchandise or used to certify transaction agreements. Such intricate mechanisms indicate a level
of sophistication in Harappan trade practices, cementing their position as a leading trading
civilization of the time.

Modes of Trade

Here are some of the modes of Harappan trade supported by archaeological findings:

1. Overland Trade Routes:

Archaeological evidence, such as seals and pottery, indicates that the Harappans had well-
established overland trade routes. These routes connected their urban centers with neighboring
regions like Mesopotamia, Central Asia, and the Gangetic plains. The presence of Harappan
artifacts in distant regions suggests the existence of trade caravans.

Archaeological Findings:

 Seal impressions found in Mesopotamia, featuring Harappan script and motifs,

indicate overland trade connections between the two regions.
 The discovery of Harappan pottery in the northern Indian state of Haryana, far
from the Indus Valley, highlights overland trade networks within the
subcontinent.

Reference: Possehl, G. L. (2002). "The Indus Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective."

Rowman Altamira.

This book provides an overview of the Indus Valley civilization, including discussions on
overland trade routes and the presence of Harappan artifacts in Mesopotamia.

2. Riverine Trade:
1. Daine & Sarah, 2010. p.213).
Daine, P. M. and Sarah, E. L. (2010). Everyday Life in South Asia.Pennyslivia: Indiana
University Press.
2 Thapar,1996. p.97). Thapar, R. N. (1996).Historical View Of India: (Vol 11). England: Penguin.
3,AL BASHAM pg11
4.RS sharma pg 78
5.RS ShaRMA PG 80
6. Giosan, Liviu, et al. Neoglacial climate anomalies and the Harappan metamorphosis.
7.Possehl, Gregory L. The Indus Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective. AltaMira
Press, 2002.
8.Wright, Rita P. The Ancient Indus: Urbanization, Economy, and Society.
Cambridge University Press, 2009.
9Kenoyer, Jonathan Mark. Ancient cities of the Indus Valley civilization. Oxford
University Press USA, 1998.
The Indus River, along with its tributaries, played a crucial role in facilitating trade within the
Harappan civilization. Boats and watercraft were used to transport goods along these waterways.
The cities of Mohenjo-daro and Harappa, located near the Indus River, likely served as key trade
hubs.

Archaeological Findings:

 The presence of dockyards and quays in Mohenjo-daro suggests the importance of

riverine trade. These structures were used for loading and unloading goods from
boats.
 Archaeologists have found remains of boats and anchors at various Harappan
sites, reinforcing the idea of riverine trade.

Reference: Kenoyer, J. M. (1998). "Ancient Cities of the Indus Valley Civilization." Oxford
University Press.

Kenoyer's work discusses riverine trade within the Indus Valley civilization, emphasizing the
significance of river systems for transportation and trade.


3. Seaborne Trade:

While the evidence for seaborne trade is less abundant compared to overland and riverine trade,
some artifacts suggest that the Harappans engaged in maritime commerce. The coastal site of
Lothal in Gujarat is believed to have been a key port city connected to the Arabian Sea.

Archaeological Findings:

 The presence of a large, well-planned dock at Lothal provides evidence of

seaborne trade. The dock had a tidal lock system to control water levels, allowing
ships to load and unload cargo.
 Imported goods such as Mesopotamian pottery and artifacts from Oman have
been discovered at Harappan sites, suggesting maritime trade connections.

Reference: Rao, S. R. (1985). "Lothal: A Harappan Port Town (1955-62)." Archaeological

Survey of India.

This publication focuses on the excavation and findings at the Harappan port city of Lothal,
providing insights into seaborne trade activities.
1. Daine & Sarah, 2010. p.213).
Daine, P. M. and Sarah, E. L. (2010). Everyday Life in South Asia.Pennyslivia: Indiana
University Press.
2 Thapar,1996. p.97). Thapar, R. N. (1996).Historical View Of India: (Vol 11). England: Penguin.
3,AL BASHAM pg11
4.RS sharma pg 78
5.RS ShaRMA PG 80
6. Giosan, Liviu, et al. Neoglacial climate anomalies and the Harappan metamorphosis.
7.Possehl, Gregory L. The Indus Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective. AltaMira
Press, 2002.
8.Wright, Rita P. The Ancient Indus: Urbanization, Economy, and Society.
Cambridge University Press, 2009.
9Kenoyer, Jonathan Mark. Ancient cities of the Indus Valley civilization. Oxford
University Press USA, 1998.
 4. Trade with Terrestrial and Maritime Neighbors:

Archaeological findings indicate that the Harappans traded with both neighboring terrestrial
regions and distant maritime neighbors. They exchanged goods such as pottery, metals, textiles,
and agricultural produce in these transactions.

Archaeological Findings:

 The presence of Mesopotamian seals and artifacts in Harappan cities and vice
versa suggests active trade between these regions.
 The variety of foreign artifacts found in Harappan cities, including Persian Gulf
beads and Central Asian ceramics, provides evidence of trade with distant
neighbors.

Reference: Kenoyer, J. M. (1997). "Trade and Technology of the Indus Valley: New Insights
from Harappa, Pakistan." World Archaeology, 29(2), 262-280.

This article by Kenoyer discusses trade interactions between the Harappan civilization and its
neighbors, including evidence of foreign artifacts found in Harappan cities.


5. Trade-Based Ceremonial Centers:

Some Harappan sites, like Dholavira, had elaborate structures that are believed to have served as
centers for trade and commerce. These structures, with their unique architectural features,
indicate the significance of trade in Harappan society.

Archaeological Findings:

 The city of Dholavira in Gujarat features a large reservoir with channels and
embankments, possibly used for regulating water and facilitating trade activities.
This suggests that Dholavira may have been a major trade-based ceremonial
center.

Reference: Bisht, R. S. (1982). "Dholavira: A Harappan City." In "Studies in Indian

Archaeology" (pp. 141-150). Director General, Archaeological Survey of India.

1. Daine & Sarah, 2010. p.213).

Daine, P. M. and Sarah, E. L. (2010). Everyday Life in South Asia.Pennyslivia: Indiana
University Press.
2 Thapar,1996. p.97). Thapar, R. N. (1996).Historical View Of India: (Vol 11). England: Penguin.
3,AL BASHAM pg11
4.RS sharma pg 78
5.RS ShaRMA PG 80
6. Giosan, Liviu, et al. Neoglacial climate anomalies and the Harappan metamorphosis.
7.Possehl, Gregory L. The Indus Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective. AltaMira
Press, 2002.
8.Wright, Rita P. The Ancient Indus: Urbanization, Economy, and Society.
Cambridge University Press, 2009.
9Kenoyer, Jonathan Mark. Ancient cities of the Indus Valley civilization. Oxford
University Press USA, 1998.
This reference discusses the city of Dholavira and its role as a potential trade-based ceremonial
center within the Harappan civilization.

In conclusion, archaeological evidence supports the existence of various modes of trade in the
Harappan civilization, including overland, riverine, and seaborne trade. The artifacts, structures,
and trade connections discovered at Harappan sites provide valuable insights into the extent and
complexity of their trading activities, which were central to the pros

Conclusion:
The Harappan civilization, with its advanced urban centers and sophisticated trade networks,
left an indelible mark on history. The items traded by the Harappans were not only
commodities but also conduits of cultural exchange and interaction with neighboring regions.
The exchange of goods such as precious stones, textiles, pottery, seals, and agricultural
products reflects the economic vibrancy and ingenuity of this ancient civilization.

While the Harappan script remains undeciphered, the seals and artifacts provide valuable
insights into their trade practices and administrative systems. The significance of trade in the
Harappan civilization cannot be overstated, as it not only sustained their cities but also
fostered a rich cultural tapestry that contributed to their lasting legacy in the annals of history.

In conclusion, the items of Harappan trade offer a glimpse into the economic, cultural, and
social dimensions of this ancient civilization, highlighting their contributions to the
development of trade and commerce in the ancient world.

1. Daine & Sarah, 2010. p.213).

Daine, P. M. and Sarah, E. L. (2010). Everyday Life in South Asia.Pennyslivia: Indiana
University Press.
2 Thapar,1996. p.97). Thapar, R. N. (1996).Historical View Of India: (Vol 11). England: Penguin.
3,AL BASHAM pg11
4.RS sharma pg 78
5.RS ShaRMA PG 80
6. Giosan, Liviu, et al. Neoglacial climate anomalies and the Harappan metamorphosis.
7.Possehl, Gregory L. The Indus Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective. AltaMira
Press, 2002.
8.Wright, Rita P. The Ancient Indus: Urbanization, Economy, and Society.
Cambridge University Press, 2009.
9Kenoyer, Jonathan Mark. Ancient cities of the Indus Valley civilization. Oxford
University Press USA, 1998.
References

Possehl, G. L. (2002). The Indus Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective. Rowman

Altamira.

Kenoyer, J. M. (1991). The Indus Valley Tradition of Pakistan and Western India. Journal of
World Prehistory, 5(4), 331-385.

Mackay, E. J. H. (1938). Further Excavations at Mohenjo-daro: Being an Official Account of

Archaeological Excavations at Mohenjo-daro Carried Out by the Government of India
Between the Years 1927 and 1931. The Government of India.

Parpola, A. (1994). Deciphering the Indus Script. Cambridge University Press.

Kenoyer, J. M. (2005). The Ancient Cities of the Indus Valley Civilization. Oxford
University Press.

Regenerate

1. Daine & Sarah, 2010. p.213).

Daine, P. M. and Sarah, E. L. (2010). Everyday Life in South Asia.Pennyslivia: Indiana
University Press.
2 Thapar,1996. p.97). Thapar, R. N. (1996).Historical View Of India: (Vol 11). England: Penguin.
3,AL BASHAM pg11
4.RS sharma pg 78
5.RS ShaRMA PG 80
6. Giosan, Liviu, et al. Neoglacial climate anomalies and the Harappan metamorphosis.
7.Possehl, Gregory L. The Indus Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective. AltaMira
Press, 2002.
8.Wright, Rita P. The Ancient Indus: Urbanization, Economy, and Society.
Cambridge University Press, 2009.
9Kenoyer, Jonathan Mark. Ancient cities of the Indus Valley civilization. Oxford
University Press USA, 1998.