The ancient archaeological site of Kot Diji was discovered and extensively excavated by Fazal Ahmad Khan in 1953. This significant site is located in the Sindh province of Pakistan, situated on the east bank of the Indus River, opposite Mohenjo-Daro.
Kot Diji stands as a pivotal site for understanding the pre-Harappan and early Harappan phases of the Indus Valley Civilization. The excavations here provided crucial insights into the cultural sequence that predates the mature Harappan period, revealing distinct pottery styles, architectural features, and evidence of a fortified settlement.
Key Archaeological Discoveries in the Indus Valley
Fazal Ahmad Khan's work at Kot Diji is part of a broader history of archaeological exploration across the Indus Valley region. The table below highlights some of the key sites, their excavators, and the years of their discovery or significant excavation:
| Site | Excavator | Year of Discovery/Excavation |
|---|---|---|
| Surkotada | J.P Joshi | 1972 |
| Sutkagendor | Aurel Stein | 1927 |
| Kot Diji | Fazal Ahmad Khan | 1953 |
| Chanhudaro | N.G. Mazumder | 1931 |
The Significance of Kot Diji's Discovery
Fazal Ahmad Khan's excavation of Kot Diji was monumental because it systematically unearthed levels belonging to the early Indus period, lying beneath the mature Harappan levels. This provided tangible evidence of a smooth cultural transition and continuity from pre-Harappan settlements to the highly developed Harappan cities.
The findings at Kot Diji include unique Kot Dijian pottery, which is characterized by its distinctive dark-painted designs on a red slip. The presence of a massive defensive wall suggests early forms of urban planning and security. The discovery helped scholars understand the foundational stages of the Indus Valley Civilization, illustrating how early communities evolved and adopted practices that eventually defined the Harappan culture.
