Of Our Non-violent Ancestors

Pattanaik provides a comprehensive insight into the mysterious world of the Harappan civilisation

- MAYANK JAIN PARICHHA

The Harappan civilisation, or Indus Valley Civilisation (IVC), has always fascinated historians for its urban planning and somewhat organised lifestyle and trade, without any known depiction of war or violence. Does this make them the first non-violent civilisation? According to Devdutt Pattanaik, a renowned mythologist and writer, it does. In his latest book, Ahimsa: 100 Reflections on the Harappan Civilization, Pattanaik departs from his image of a mythology writer to offer insightful reflections on Harappan civilisation.

In September 2024, John Marshall, Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India, told the world about Harappan Civilisation.

Although the existence of a civilisation as ancient as Mesopotamia and as grand as Egypt was in itself a great moment, a lot of things remained a mystery. One of the mysteries was the peaceful nature of this civilisation.