Which among the following Chalcolithic rural cultures is the earliest?

Correct option is A

Correct Answer: (A) Ahar Culture
Explanation:
→ The Ahar Culture, also known as the Banas Culture, is a Chalcolithic (Copper-Bronze Age) rural culture located in the Mewar region of Rajasthan, along the Banas River. It dates back to approximately 3000–1500 BCE, making it earlier than Kayatha, Malwa, and Jorwe cultures.
→ The Ahar Culture is characterized by agricultural settlements, domestication of animals, and the use of copper tools and weapons, marking the transition from the Neolithic to Chalcolithic phase in central and western India.
→ Pottery is an important feature, typically black-and-red ware with painted geometric designs. Tools such as axes, chisels, and spearheads made of copper have been discovered, along with microliths.
→ In contrast, Kayatha Culture (c. 2500–2000 BCE) in Madhya Pradesh is slightly later. Malwa Culture (c. 1600–1300 BCE) and Jorwe Culture (c. 1400–1000 BCE) belong to later phases of Chalcolithic development in central and western India.
→ The Ahar Culture reflects the earliest experimentation with metallurgy, agricultural expansion, and settled village life, establishing the foundation for later Chalcolithic cultures in India.
Information Booster:
→ Ahar Culture is the earliest Chalcolithic rural culture in Mewar (3000–1500 BCE).
→ Settlements were along the Banas River for water access.
→ Economy based on farming, animal husbandry, and limited trade.
→ Notable for black-and-red ware pottery with geometric patterns.
→ Tools were primarily copper implements, marking the shift from stone.
→ Later Chalcolithic cultures like Kayatha, Malwa, and Jorwe evolved from these settlements.
→ Demonstrates social organization, craft specialization, and early urban planning.
Additional Information (Other Options):
Option (B) Kayatha Culture – Located in Madhya Pradesh, c. 2500–2000 BCE; later than Ahar Culture, known for painted pottery and copper tools.
Option (C) Jorwe Culture – Maharashtra, c. 1400–1000 BCE; known for storage pits and fortified settlements; after Ahar Culture.
Option (D) Malwa Culture – Central India, c. 1600–1300 BCE; noted for coarse red ware pottery; developed after Ahar Culture.