Rakhigarhi excavation unveils ancient skeleton’s DNA; Archaeological evidence that debunks Aryan invasion theory

Tucked away in the quiet villages of Rakhi Shahpur and Rakhi Khas in Haryana’s Hisar district lies an archaeological gem, Rakhigarhi. Situated approximately 93 miles from the national capital, New Delhi, this unassuming location holds profound historical significance as the most prominent site of the Harappan culture.

Rakhigarhi, with its unassuming facade, has become a global focal point for historians, anthropologists, geneticists, and linguists. The recent excavation of Mound 7, a vast area spanning 865 acres, has revealed a unique collection of 56 skeletons. Among them, the remains of a woman, estimated to be approximately 4,600 years old, have sparked significant intrigue.

DNA analysis of the woman’s skeleton has yielded remarkable insights, suggesting a genetic makeup primarily related to ancient Iranians, with additional influences from Southeast Asian hunter-gatherers. Notably, the absence of the Steppe Pastoral gene, typically found in Central Asian populations, has sparked debates about the origins and migrations of ancient peoples.

The discovery at Rakhigarhi has reignited long-standing debates about the Aryan migration to India, a topic deeply ingrained in the nation’s historical narrative. The absence of the Steppe Pastoral gene, typically found in Central Asian populations, has challenged established theories and sparked new discussions about the origins and migrations of ancient peoples.

While some scientists argue for continuity in indigenous origins, suggesting a shared heritage between the Harappan and Vedic cultures, others contend that the two civilisations were distinct entities. The absence of linguistic evidence at Rakhigarhi complicates the relationship between Vedic and Harappan cultures, prompting further inquiries into language evolution and cultural exchange.

Sanjay Manjul, the chief archaeologist at Rakhigarhi, highlights the site’s cultural continuity, drawing parallels with Vedic practices such as fire altars and sacrificial pits. However, the diverse viewpoints among scientists underscore the intricacies of interpreting ancient history and the necessity for further research.

Niraj Rai, a scientist involved in genome projects, acknowledges the presence of Harappan ancestry in modern Indian populations and notes the influence of Steppe DNA. He suggests migrations from the Steppe region occurred after 1500 BCE, leading to genetic mixing with local populations.

Professor Vasant Shinde, a key figure in the excavation work at Rakhigarhi, emphasises the significance of genetic and archaeological evidence in understanding India’s cultural heritage. However, historians like Romila Thapar question established chronologies and ideological interpretations of history.

The Rakhigarhi findings challenge long-held beliefs and prompt a reevaluation of India’s ancient past.

Earlier, Excavations at Rakhigarhi also revealed various occupational phases beginning from the Early to mature Harrapan period, covering the time from 5th millennia BCE to 3rd millennia BCE based on the radiocarbon dates obtained from various layers.

In 2021, archaeologists discovered eleven mounds in total at Rakhigarhi, which have been named RGR-1 to RGR-11. Until then, Mohenjo Daro, which covers 300 hectares, was considered the largest Harappan metropolis in south Asia. The Rakhigarhi site ranks among one of the “five iconic sites” declared by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during her budget speech in February 2020. The other sites are Hastinapur in Uttar Pradesh, Sivasagar in Assam, Dholavira in Gujarat and Adichanallur in Tamil Nadu.