With reference to the burial practices of the Harappans, consider the following statements:
1. The Harappans practiced three types of burials: complete burial, fractional burial and cremation burial.
2. They placed the dead in a North-South direction, often accompanied by grave goods such as pottery and tools.
3. Joint burials have been found at Harappan sites like Lothal.
Which of the statements given above are correct?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (d) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: Harappan burial practices were diverse, including complete (burial of the whole body), fractional (burial of bones after exposure to birds/beasts), and cremation.
• Statement 2 is correct: The standard practice was placing the body in an extended position with the head towards the North. They believed in an afterlife, hence the inclusion of pottery and ornaments.
• Statement 3 is correct: Evidence of joint burials (male and female together) was found at Lothal.
• At Kalibangan, both brick-chambered burials and pit burials were found.

Information Booster:

• R-37 is the name of a famous cemetery found at Harappa.
• Ornaments like copper mirrors and beads were common grave goods.

Additional Knowledge:

1 and 2 only (Option a)

• Incorrect because it misses the specific finding of joint burials at Lothal, which is a verified archaeological fact.

So the correct answer is (d)