Ancient History : Indus Valley Civilization

Q 6 / 6

UPSC CSE Prelims 2001

Which one of the following animals was not represented seals and terracotta art of the Harappan culture?

EXPLANATION

Correct Option

The Harappan seals and terracotta art extensively feature various animals, including elephants, rhinoceroses, and tigers. However, the cow is conspicuously absent from these representations. This absence suggests that the cow may not have held the same prominent religious or cultural significance during the Harappan period as it did in later Vedic and subsequent eras.

Incorrect Options

Elephant: Representations of elephants are frequently found on Harappan seals, often depicted with considerable detail.

Rhinoceros: The rhinoceros is a common motif on Harappan seals and terracotta figurines, sometimes shown alongside other wild animals.

Tiger: Tigers are prominently featured in Harappan iconography, appearing on numerous seals and terracotta artifacts, indicating their presence and perhaps symbolic importance in the Harappan worldview.

SOURCENCERT Class 12 History Part 1 Chapter 1: Bricks, Beads and Bones - The Harappan Civilisation