With reference to the burial practices of the Harappans, consider the following statements:
- 1. The Harappans practised three types of burial: complete burial, fractional burial and cremation burial.
- 2. They placed the dead in a north–south direction, often with grave goods such as pottery and tools.
- 3. Joint burials have been found at Harappan sites like Lothal.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- A1 and 2 only
- B2 and 3 only
- C1 and 3 only
- D1, 2 and 3
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
All three statements are correct.
- Types of burial: archaeologists describe complete burial (the whole body laid in a grave), fractional burial (only some bones buried after the body was exposed) and post-cremation burial (the ashes or bones buried after burning).
- Direction and grave goods: the dead were usually laid north–south, with the head to the north, often with pottery, ornaments and tools, which suggests a belief in life after death.
- Joint burials: at Lothal, graves with two skeletons together have been found.
The cemetery R-37 at Harappa is a major source on Harappan burials. The Harappans built no large tombs.