GS PrelimsHistory (Ancient India)IVC Indus Valley Civilization2013

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.

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