Trade and Culture

India's engagement with maritime trade dates back to ancient times. The country's position as a crossroad between East and West led to the establishment of thriving seaports that were integral to its trade networks with Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, China, and Southeast Asia.

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India, with its vast and diverse coastline extending over 7,500 kilometers, has a rich maritime history that dates back to ancient times. The country's strategic location between the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean has made it a significant hub for global trade for centuries. From ancient ports that facilitated cultural exchange to modern-day harbors crucial for international commerce, India's ports have been at the heart of its economic and cultural history.

India's engagement with maritime trade dates back to ancient times. The country's position as a crossroad between East and West led to the establishment of thriving seaports that were integral to its trade networks with Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, China, and Southeast Asia. Some of the earliest and most notable ancient ports in India are:

ANCIENT PORTS IN INDIA

Lothal (Gujarat)
Lothal, located in present-day Gujarat, is one of the most significant ancient ports of India, dating back to around 2200 BCE. It was part of the Harappan Civilization (Indus Valley Civilization) and is often referred to as one of the earliest maritime trade centers in the world. The discovery of a dockyard at Lothal has provided valuable evidence of its importance in ancient maritime trade. The port facilitated trade with regions in the Arabian Gulf, Sumer (modern-day Iraq), and Mesopotamia, and was known for the export of beads, semi-precious stones, and cotton textiles. The Harappans also imported materials like lapis lazuli, copper, and gold through this port.

Arikamedu (Tamil Nadu)