Discuss the functions that may have been performed by rulers.

Explanation

To discuss the functions of Rulers in Harappan society, it is very important to note down the different views on the Harappan society as there is no consensus amongst the archaeologists.
(a) One group of archaeologists suggest that the Harappan society had no rulers and so everybody enjoyed equal status. The other group of archaeologists are of the opinion that there was no single ruler but several ones. The third theory seems the most suitable. It suggests that it is unlikely that entire communities could have collectively made and implemented such complex decisions.
(b) A rare stone statue labelled as .priest king. was recovered. Archaeologist often familiar with Mesopotamian history and its priest-kings find parallels. In the light of the fact ritual practices of Harappan civilisation are not well understood and no concrete means of knowing who performed ritual practices and held political power.
(c ) Evidences shown that complex decision were taken and implemented in the Harappan society. Extraordinary uniformity of Harappan artefacts as evident in pottery, seals, weights and bricks show the complex decisions.
(d) Plans and layouts of the city were prepared under the guidance and supervisions of the rulers. Big buildings, palaces, forts, tanks, wells, canals, and granaries were constructed. Cleanliness was the responsibility of the rulers.
(e ) The ruler also looked after the welfare of the economy. They used to inspire the farmers to increase agricultural production. They also motivated the craftsmen to promote different handicrafts. External and internal both trade were promoted by the rulers.
(f) The ruler used to issue common acceptable coins or seals, weights and measurements. Rulers were expected to provide relief during natural the calamity like food, earthquake, epidemics. During foreign aggression, the rulers defended the city.