Egalitarian Society in Indus Civilisation

The Indus Civilization, known for its advanced urban planning and architecture, exhibited characteristics of an egalitarian society. Archaeological evidence suggests that cities within this civilization featured a layout that provided all houses with access to essential amenities such as water and drainage systems. This uniformity in infrastructure indicates a societal structure where wealth was not heavily concentrated among a select few. While some residences were larger than others, the overall design of the cities reflects a commitment to equitable access to resources. The presence of public baths and granaries further supports the notion of communal facilities that served the entire population, rather than being exclusive to the affluent. This aspect of the Indus Civilization is significant as it contrasts with other contemporary societies where wealth disparity was more pronounced. The relatively low concentration of wealth suggests that social stratification was minimal, allowing for a more cohesive community structure. The urban centers of the Indus Civilization, such as Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, are often cited as examples of this egalitarian ethos, where the planning and resources were distributed in a manner that promoted collective well-being over individual opulence.