Surkotada

Surkotada is an archaeological site located in the Kutch district of Gujarat, India. It is known for being a significant Harappan (Indus Valley Civilization) site, and is notable for providing evidence of horse remains, although the interpretation of these remains remains a subject of scholarly debate.

Excavations at Surkotada, primarily conducted by Jagat Pati Joshi between 1964 and 1972, revealed a fortified citadel and residential area. The site is believed to have been occupied from around 2300 BCE to 1750 BCE.

Key findings at Surkotada include:

• Defensive structures: The citadel was enclosed by a stone wall, indicating a concern for security.
• Pottery: A variety of Harappan pottery types were discovered, providing insights into the material culture of the inhabitants.
• Horse remains: Fragmentary skeletal remains, tentatively identified as belonging to horses, were found. This discovery is important because the presence of horses in the Harappan Civilization has been debated, as the evidence from other sites is less conclusive. The identification and origin of these remains are still discussed among scholars.
• Other animal remains: Besides the controversial horse remains, bones of other animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs were also found.
• Weights and measures: Artifacts related to weights and measures were also uncovered, demonstrating the standardized system used by the Harappans for trade and commerce.

Surkotada, while smaller than major Harappan cities like Mohenjo-daro and Harappa, provides valuable insights into the regional variations and the westward expansion of the Indus Valley Civilization. The debate surrounding the horse remains continues to make the site particularly relevant in ongoing discussions about the Harappan culture and its connections to other cultures of the ancient world. The site is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.