Lothal to become a global hub for Maritime Heritage
Context
The National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal, Gujarat, is set to become a global hub showcasing India’s maritime legacy. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, along with other dignitaries, reviewed its progress, highlighting its potential for tourism and education.
Relevance:
GS-01 (Ancient History)
Key Highlights
- Showcasing Maritime Heritage: NMHC, developed under the Sagarmala Programme, will combine education and entertainment to display India’s maritime history, from ancient Indus Valley trade to modern naval achievements.
- Socio-Economic Impact: The project promises to boost tourism, create local employment, and empower youth through skill development, fostering economic growth in Gujarat.
- Progress and Vision: With 65% of Phase 1A completed, NMHC aims to meet its timeline and position India as a leading maritime nation, aligning with the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat by 2047.
Lothal Overview
- Lothal, an ancient city of the Indus Valley Civilisation in Gujarat’s Gulf of Khambhat, means “Mound of the Dead” in Gujarati. Discovered in 1954 by archaeologist S.R. Rao, it was a major trade hub connecting India with Mesopotamia and Africa, known for its beads, gems, and ornaments.
- Key Features
- Dockyard: World’s earliest known dock linked to the Sabarmati River for trade.
- Urban Design: Divided into Citadel (Upper Town) and Lower Town with advanced flood protection.
- Trade: Famous for bead-making and maritime connections.
- Archaeological Findings
- Engineering: Compass and ivory scale with precise measurements.
- Religion: Fire god worship with evidence of animal sacrifices; diverse religious practices.
- Metallurgy: Advanced casting techniques and shellworking.
- Art: Unique beads, seals, and terracotta toys.
- Dockyard Significance: Lothal’s dockyard, 200m long, was strategically built for high-tide access and efficient loading, showcasing the Harappan civilisation’s maritime expertise. It connected Harappan cities to global trade routes.
- Importance of Lothal
- Pioneered rice cultivation and maritime trade in South Asia.
- Renowned for exquisite craftsmanship in beads and seals.
- Its tidal dockyard highlights the advanced engineering of the Harappan era.
- Site of the upcoming National Maritime Heritage Complex, celebrating India’s maritime legacy and boosting tourism.
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Quiz: 7 January 2022
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