| With reference to the history of ancient India, consider the following statements: |
| (1) The Harappan script is not alphabetical but mainly pictographic. |
| (2) The Harappan also knew the art of measurement. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? |
A) 1 only
B) 2 only
C) Both 1 and 2
D) neither 1 nor 2
Correct Answer: C
Solution :
[c] The Harappans invented the art of writing like the people of ancient Mesopotamia. There are nearly 4,000 specimens of Harappan writing on stone seals and other objects. Unlike, the Egyptians and Mesopotamians the Harappans did not write ling inscriptions. Most inscription were recorded on seals, and contain only a few words. These seals may have been used by propertied people to mark and identify their private property. Although we have about 250-400 pictographs, and inform of a picture each letter stands for some sound, idea or object. The Harappan script is not alphabetical but mainly pictograph. The knowledge of script must have helped the receding of private property and the keeping of accounts. The urban people of the Indus regions also needed and used weight and measures for trade and other transactions. Numerous articles used for weights have been found. They show that in weighting mostly 16 or its multiples were used; for instance, 16, 64, 160, 320, and 640. Interestingly the traditions of 16 has continued in India till modern times and till recently 16 annas made one rupee. The Harappans also knew the art of measurements. We have come across sticks inscribed with measure marks; one of these is made of bronze.
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