Question

“Mesopotamian texts mention contacts with Meluhha.” Which of the following statements is supported by archaeological interpretation regarding it ?

• A. Meluhha referred to South Indian megalith culture.
• B. Meluhha was an ancient kingdom ruled by Lord Shiva.
• C. Meluhha was the other me of ancient Egypt.
• D. Meluhha referred to a trading area of Harappa.

Hint:

Mesopotamian me Associations: - Dilmun $\rightarrow$ Bahrain - Makan $\rightarrow$ Oman - Meluhha $\rightarrow$ Indus Valley Harappan Civilization

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: Deciphering long-distance trade patterns in the ancient world involves correlating written cuneiform records from Mesopotamia with corresponding material artifacts uncovered at Indus Valley excavation sites.

Step 1: Alyzing Mesopotamian textual references.
Cuneiform tablet inscriptions dating to the third millennium BCE (under Sargon of Akkad) detail active maritime commerce with distant lands, specifically mentioning locations such as Dilmun (modern Bahrain), Makan (the Oman peninsula), and Meluhha.

Step 2: Applying archaeological interpretations.
Historians and archaeologists match the me Meluhha with the Harappan region (the Indus Valley Civilization) based on several lines of evidence:
• The texts describe Meluhha as a land rich in exotic commodities like carnelian, lapis lazuli, copper, gold, and various types of wood.
• All these materials are hallmark luxury trade items excavated in abundance at major Indus settlements.
• Mesopotamian seals featuring Harappan animal motifs and script scripts confirm direct trading hubs. Thus, Meluhha refers to the Harappan zone, making Option (D) the accurate choice.