Question

Where is the Harappan site called Shortughai located?

• A. Punjab
• B. Gujarat
• C. Rajasthan
• D. Afghanistan

Hint:

Remember: Shortughai is the only Harappan site located in Afghanistan, established mainly for trade in lapis lazuli from Badakhshan mines.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Identify Shortughai.
Shortughai is a well-known Harappan (Indus Valley Civilization) site located outside the main Harappan core region. It lies near the Amu Darya (Oxus River) in present-day northern Afghanistan.
Step 2: Historical importance.
This site was a trading outpost established by the Harappans to access the lapis lazuli mines of Badakhshan, which were a highly prized resource in ancient times. The presence of typical Harappan artifacts such as beads, weights, and pottery confirms its connection with the Indus Valley Civilization.
Step 3: Elimination of wrong options.
- (A) Punjab: Many Harappan sites exist here (like Harappa itself), but Shortughai is not one of them.
- (B) Gujarat: Important sites like Lothal, Dholavira, Surkotada are here, but not Shortughai.
- (C) Rajasthan: Sites like Kalibangan are located here, not Shortughai.
- (D) Afghanistan: Correct, as Shortughai is located in northern Afghanistan.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Thus, the Harappan site called Shortughai is located in Afghanistan.