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U.P.P.C.S. Mains 2005

Ancient Funerary Practices

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Megaliths have been identified as-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept 'Megalith' literally means 'large stone', and in the context of Indian archaeology, they represent a specific type of funerary architecture.

Explanation Excavations of megalithic structures like dolmens and cists almost always reveal human remains along with grave goods like iron tools and black-and-red ware pottery.

Logical Breakup
Burial Sites (B): This is the primary function identified by archaeologists for these structures in India (c. 1500 BCE – 200 CE).
Location: They are most common in Peninsular India (Deccan and the South).

Active Recall

Question

What kind of items are typically found in Megalithic burials?

Answer

Burials often contain iron tools (swords, daggers), pottery, horse equipment, and occasionally gold ornaments.

Core Insight

The effort required to build these massive stone structures suggests a society with a complex social organization and a deep reverence for the dead.

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