Indian Archaeological Studies During the Last Five Decades and their Significance
V.K. Jain
Chapter – 2
- Archaeological research in India officially began in 1861 with the establishment of the Archaeological Survey of India, headed by A. Cunningham.
- Prior to 1861, random discoveries of lithic tools and Prehistoric structures were reported, but there was little understanding of their significance in relation to the progress of Prehistoric man in South Asia.
- Cunningham’s appointment was to identify important places mentioned in ancient texts, especially those of the Chinese pilgrims Fahien and Hiuen-Tsang, rather than to conduct excavations.
- Some Harappan seals came to Cunningham’s attention, but their significance was not comprehended.
- Sir John Marshall became the Head of the Archaeological Survey of India in 1902, initiating a system of excavations, primarily at early historic cities and Buddhist sites.
- During Marshall’s tenure, the spectacular discovery of the Harappan Civilization occurred between 1920-22, including the discovery of Mohenjodaro.
- Mohenjodaro, the mega city of the Harappans, was discovered during the excavation of a Buddhist stupa.