Daimabad
Daimabad is a Chalcolithic and Harappan archaeological site in Maharashtra, India.
Overview
Daimabad is a major Chalcolithic site on the Pravara River in Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra. It is renowned for the Daimabad Hoard — a group of four bronze sculptures from the Late Harappan period, comprising a chariot with a charioteer, an elephant, a rhinoceros, and a buffalo — among the finest examples of Harappan bronze art.
Historical Context
Excavated by S.R. Rao (1958–59) and later by other ASI teams, Daimabad spans from the Jorwe culture (c. 1400–700 BCE) through the Late Harappan period. The bronze hoard, dating to c. 1300 BCE, represents the easternmost extension of Late Harappan influence into the Deccan.
Features/Significance
The Daimabad Hoard is the site’s most celebrated find: four bronze figures found together, possibly depicting a procession or narrative scene. The chariot with its charioteer figure is particularly striking. The site also yielded typical Jorwe pottery, copper tools, and evidence of a settled agricultural community. It demonstrates the southward spread of Harappan cultural elements.
Modern Status
A protected ASI monument. The Daimabad Hoard is housed in the National Museum, New Delhi, and is among the museum’s most prized acquisitions.
Verification Notes
- Daimabad Hoard: S.R. Rao, “Chalcolithic Savalda and Jorwe Cultures,” in Indian Archaeology: A Review (1958–59).
- Bronze figures dated c. 1300 BCE.
- Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).