Discuss the functions that may have been performed by rulers in Harappan society.

Regarding ruler in Harappan society, it is a highly contested field. Because scholars tend to differ in their view regarding it. some scholars believe that there was no ruler and everybody enjoyed equal status, whereas some scholars believe that there were several rulers, for example Mohendaro had one as well as Harappa. There are other group who thinks that such an elaborate city planning could not be achieved unless there was a single ruler. As of now, the last theory seems the most plausible, as it is unlikely that entire communities could have collectively made and implemented such complex decisions.

(i) There are indications of complex decisions being taken and implemented in Harappan society. Take for instance, the extraordinary uniformity of Harappan artefacts as evident in pottery, seals, weights and bricks. Hence one of the function of the ruler could be making decision and implementing it.

(ii) Notably, bricks, though obviously not produced in any single centre, were of a uniform ratio throughout the region, from Jammu to Gujarat. We have also seen that settlements were strategically set up in specific locations for various reasons. Thus, another function of ruler could be maintaining production centre and devising strategies and locating settlements at the strategic locations.

(iii) Another function of the ruler looks like to be mobilising the work force, planning for the construction of the settlements and its structure.

(iv) Important function of the ruler would also have been to look after the economic condition of his territory, as we can see there are uniformity in seals, weight etc. Enhancement of trade and agriculture would also be rulers main function.

(v) During the natural calamity such as flood, earthquake, epidemic etc. the ruler would have provided for the masses and during foreign attact would have protected the one upon whom he/she ruled.