Manda, Jammu facts for kids
 Location in Jammu and Kashmir
Location in India
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| Location | Manda, Jammu, J&K, India |
|---|---|
| Region | India |
| Coordinates | 32°56′00″N 74°48′00″E / 32.93333°N 74.80000°E |
| Type | Settlement |
| Part of | Indus Valley civilisation, Mauryan Empire and Kushan Empire |
| History | |
| Founded | 400BC |
| Abandoned | 300A.D |
| Periods | 2350-1750 BC (Indus Valley Civilisation)
(Mauryan Empire) 78-200 C.E (Kushan Empire) |
| Site notes | |
| Excavation dates | 1976-77 |
| Archaeologists | J. P. Joshi |
| Condition | Abandoned |
Manda is a small village and an exciting archaeological site in Jammu and Kashmir, India. It's a place where ancient ruins of the Indus Valley civilization were found. Experts from the Archaeological Survey of India dug here in 1976-77. A famous archaeologist named J. P. Joshi led this important work.
Contents
Uncovering Manda's Past
Archaeologists dug deep at Manda, finding layers of history about 9 meters (30 feet) deep. These layers showed three main time periods. The earliest period, called Period I, had two smaller parts.
What Did They Find?
In the later periods, archaeologists found pottery from early historical times. This pottery was similar to what was found in other parts of Northern India. They also discovered items from the Kushan Empire, like old coins or tools. They even found parts of house walls and a street about 3 meters (10 feet) wide. After the Kushan period, it seems the site was left empty.
Why Manda Was Important
Manda is located on the right bank of the Chenab River. It sits at the foot of the Pir Panjal mountain range, about 28 kilometers (17 miles) northwest of Jammu. This location was very special.
Northern Gateway of the Indus Valley Civilization
For a long time, Manda was thought to be the northernmost point of the Harappan civilisation. This ancient civilization, also known as the Indus Valley civilisation, stretched across a huge area. Manda's discovery helped us understand just how far north they reached.
A Hub for Wood Trading
Experts believe Manda was set up to get wood from the Himalayan foothills. This wood could then be sent down the river to other towns of the Indus Valley Civilization. It was like a supply station for valuable resources.
Amazing Discoveries and Artefacts
During the digs, many interesting objects were found at Manda. These finds help us learn about the daily lives of the people who lived there long ago.
Pottery and Tools
Archaeologists found different kinds of pottery, including red pottery from the Pre-Harappan and Harappan periods. There were jars, dishes, and even special dishes-on-stands. They also found beakers and goblets. Other tools included copper pins, bone arrowheads, terracotta (clay) bangles, and chert blades.
Clues to Ancient Writing
One of the most exciting finds was pieces of pottery with Indus script carved into them. They also found one unfinished seal. These discoveries are very important because they give us more clues about the mysterious writing system of the Indus Valley Civilization.
