Ancient Civilizations in

India
 Ancient Civilizations in India
A land of ancient civilizations and diverse cultures:
• Aryans, Greeks, Kushans, Huns, Mongols, Arabs,
Turco-Afghans, invaded the land and settled here in
large numbers creating the cultural mosaic that was
India (175 languages and 500 dialects).
The Indus Valley Civilization (2500–1900 BC)

• Moenjo Daro and Harrappa:

• Urban civilization traces of town planning, civic amenities, use of burnt
brick, social classes, crafts and career specilization, agriculture, weights and
measures, toys, jewellery, use of metals, sophisticated art, writing
(pictographs) Peace loving people, links with Iran and Mesopotamia.
The Aryan Civilization (2000-1500 BC):

• Origin of Aryans is obscure, perhaps nomadic tribes living in Central

Asia.
• They attacked Northern Sub-continent, either subjugated or pushed
the original Dravadians to the South.
• Thought very highly of themselves but as compared to the civilized
people they were illiterate, rude, barbarous, and warlike.
 The Ghandhara Culture

• Marked by the rise of Buddhism.

• It spread over a large area of Afghanistan, present
N.W.F.P. and Taxila.
• Gandhara culture, Stupas and statues of Buddha
(d. 484BC), Monistic orders. Great seats of
learning were established which attracted scholars
from all over the Sub-Continent, Burma, Thailand
and China.