Manda: The Northernmost Site of the Indus Valley Civilization

Manda is an important archaeological site of the Indus Valley Civilization (IVC), located in Akhnoor, Jammu and Kashmir, on the right bank of the Chenab River. It is considered the northernmost known settlement of the Indus Valley Civilization, highlighting the civilization’s vast reach beyond its core regions of present-day Pakistan and northwestern India.

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Discovery and Excavation

• The site was first excavated by J.P. Joshi of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in 1976-77.
• The excavations revealed evidence of a Harappan settlement, proving that the Indus Valley Civilization extended as far north as Jammu.

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Key Findings

Manda has yielded several artifacts and structural remains that link it to the broader Indus Valley Civilization, including:

1. Pottery: Typical Harappan-style pottery, including red and grey wares, similar to those found in sites like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro.
2. Stone Tools: Chisels, blades, and other tools made of stone, indicating local craftsmanship and trade.
3. Mud-Brick Structures: Foundations of buildings and fortifications similar to those in other Harappan cities.
4. Beads and Ornaments: Semi-precious stones and terracotta beads, suggesting trade links with other Harappan sites.

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Importance of Manda in Indus Valley Trade

• Manda’s location on the banks of the Chenab River provided a strategic position for trade and connectivity.
• It was likely a trade outpost connecting the Indus Valley Civilization to regions further north, including Kashmir and Central Asia.
• The site may have served as a hub for the exchange of goods such as timber, metals, and stones from the Himalayan regions.

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Significance of Manda

• Geographical Extent: Confirms that the Indus Valley Civilization extended beyond its traditionally known boundaries.
• Cultural Influence: Shows how Harappan culture influenced northern India, including trade and settlement patterns.
• Archaeological Insights: Provides valuable data about the adaptation of Harappan people to different geographical terrains.

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Conclusion

Manda stands as an important site that expands our understanding of the Indus Valley Civilization’s reach and trade networks. Its strategic location along the Chenab River suggests it played a crucial role in facilitating commerce between the Harappans and northern regions.