Which of the following characterizes/ characterize the people of Indus Civilization?
1. They possessed great palaces and temples.
2. They worshipped both male and female deities.
3. They employed horse-drawn chariots in warfare.
Select the correct statement/ statements using the codes given below.
A
1 and 2 only
B
2 only
C
1, 2 and 3
D
None of the statements given above is correct
Correct Answer: Option B
Explanation
1. Archaeological findings for the Indus Civilization suggest well-planned cities but lack evidence of grand palaces or monumental temples comparable to other ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia or Egypt; structures were largely functional. Statement 1 is incorrect.
2. Evidence such as numerous terracotta figurines points towards the worship of a Mother Goddess (representing female deities). Additionally, seals depicting figures like the 'Pashupati Seal' suggest the worship of male deities. Statement 2 is correct.
3. The role and presence of horses and especially horse-drawn chariots during the mature Indus Civilization period, particularly for warfare, is highly debated among historians and generally considered unproven or absent. Statement 3 is incorrect.
4. Therefore, only statement 2 correctly characterizes the people of the Indus Civilization.