At which of the following ancient Indian sites was the first astronomical observatory of the Harappan civilisations found?

Appeared in: DSSSB -28 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

Dholavira, a major Harappan city located in the Kutch district of Gujarat, is the site of the first known astronomical observatory from that civilization.
Archaeologists have identified two large, circular structures that are believed to have been used for observational astronomy.
These structures were likely designed to align with celestial events, such as marking the sunrise and sunset during the summer and winter solstices.
This finding indicates a sophisticated understanding of astronomy among the Harappans, which was probably used for timekeeping, agricultural planning, and religious ceremonies.

Option B: Lothal is renowned for its large, scientifically designed dockyard, not an astronomical observatory.
Option C: Dabarkot, located in Balochistan, Pakistan, was a smaller Harappan town and is not associated with any major astronomical findings.
Option D: Surkotada, another Harappan site in Gujarat, is primarily known for the discovery of horse remains, a significant but different type of archaeological finding.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Archaeological findings at Harappan Civilization sites as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
The discovery highlights the advanced scientific and intellectual capabilities of the Harappan civilization, extending beyond their well-known skills in urban planning and trade.
It provides insight into their understanding of celestial movements, which was likely crucial for timing agricultural cycles, navigating for trade, and conducting religious practices.
This knowledge connects to the development of early calendars and timekeeping systems in ancient cultures.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key concepts in the question: 'first astronomical observatory' and 'Harappan civilisations'.
Recognize this as a factual recall question that requires specific knowledge of Indian history and archaeology.
Mentally review the major findings associated with each of the listed Harappan sites.
Recall or deduce that Lothal is famous for its dockyard and Surkotada for horse remains, which makes them unlikely answers for an observatory.
Identify Dholavira as the site linked to recent discoveries of structures interpreted for astronomical purposes.
Select Dholavira as the most plausible answer based on this specific archaeological evidence.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Archaeological findings at Harappan Civilization sites.
Stem keywords: ancient Indian sites, first astronomical observatory, Harappan civilisations
Lead-in keywords: At which

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Practise the full DSSSB -28 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.