Kalibangan is an archaeological site located in Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan, India. It was discovered in 1953 and is one of the most important sites of the Indus Valley Civilization. The name "Kalibangan" means "black bangles," and is derived from the fact that the site was known for its production of shell bangles.
Kalibangan was inhabited during the period between 2500 BCE and 1750 BCE, and it is believed that it was one of the major urban centers of the Indus Valley Civilization. The city was fortified with walls made of mud bricks, and it was divided into two parts - the citadel and the lower town.Kalibangan was first discovered in the 1950s by the archaeologist A. Ghosh. Excavations at the site have revealed a wealth of information about the Indus Valley Civilization, including its urban planning, social organization, and economic activities.
The excavations at Kalibangan have provided valuable insights into the life and culture of the people who lived there over 4,000 years ago. The site has revealed evidence of a sophisticated drainage system, a public granary, and a well-planned urban layout. The pottery found at Kalibangan is known for its distinctive black-on-red designs, and it is believed that the city was a major center for the production of terracotta objects.
One of the most significant findings at Kalibangan is the discovery of the world's earliest ploughed field. This suggests that the people of Kalibangan were advanced agriculturists who were well-versed in the techniques of farming.
The decline of Kalibangan is believed to have been caused by a combination of factors, including climate change, the drying up of the Saraswati river, and the invasion of the Aryans. The city was eventually abandoned, and it lay buried and forgotten for centuries.
In recent times, Kalibangan has become a popular destination for tourists and history buffs who are interested in exploring India's ancient past. The site has been extensively excavated, and the artifacts found there are on display at the Kalibangan Archaeological Museum.
In conclusion, Kalibangan is an important site of the Indus Valley Civilization that provides valuable insights into the life and culture of the people who lived there over 4,000 years ago. The city was a major center of urbanization, and its sophisticated drainage system and well-planned urban layout are a testament to the advanced engineering skills of its inhabitants. Kalibangan is a window into India's ancient past, and it continues to fascinate and inspire people even today.