Jagat Pati Joshi, commonly known as J. P. Joshi, is a distinguished Indian archaeologist best known for his discovery of the Indus Valley Civilization sites of Dholavira and Surkotada. Serving as the Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) from 1987 to 1990, Joshi made significant contributions to the study of ancient Indian history and culture.
Early Life and Education
Born on 14 July 1932 in Almora, United Provinces (now in Uttarakhand), J. P. Joshi pursued his higher education at Lucknow University. He earned his Master of Arts (M.A.) in Ancient History and Culture in 1954. Furthering his expertise, he completed a Postgraduate Diploma from the School of Archaeology of the Archaeological Survey of India in 1961.
Career and Contributions
J. P. Joshi’s career in archaeology spanned several decades, beginning in 1956 when he joined the Archaeological Survey of India. Throughout his tenure, he made groundbreaking discoveries and excavations that reshaped the understanding of the Indus Valley Civilization.
- Discovery of Dholavira: In 1966, Joshi discovered the Harappan site of Dholavira, located in present-day Gujarat. However, it is now acknowledged that geologist Shambhudan Ghadvi had identified the site earlier.
- Excavation of Surkotada: Joshi played a pivotal role in excavating the Harappan settlement of Surkotada, which provided crucial evidence of horse remains, influencing debates on the presence of the animal in ancient India.
- Excavation at Malvan: Collaborating with renowned archaeologist F. Raymond Allchin, Joshi worked on excavations at Malvan, further contributing to the understanding of prehistoric settlements in India.
Leadership at the ASI
In 1987, J. P. Joshi was appointed as the Director General of the ASI, succeeding M. S. Nagaraja Rao. He held this position until 1990, during which he implemented key archaeological projects and preservation efforts.
Role During the Babri Masjid Controversy
Following the demolition of the Babri Masjid in 1992, the ASI saw major administrative changes. When M. C. Joshi was replaced as Director General in 1993 by civil servant Achala Moulik, J. P. Joshi was appointed as an advisor. However, he opposed the placement of a civil servant at the helm of ASI, leading to conflicts that resulted in the abolition of the advisory post in 1995.
Legacy and Impact
J. P. Joshi’s work has left a lasting impact on Indian archaeology. His discoveries at Dholavira and Surkotada expanded knowledge about the Indus Valley Civilization and its urban planning, water conservation techniques, and cultural practices. His research and excavation reports continue to be valuable resources for scholars and historians.
J. P. Joshi remains one of India’s most celebrated archaeologists, whose pioneering work has significantly contributed to understanding the subcontinent’s ancient past. His leadership at the ASI and his discoveries in the field of Harappan archaeology ensure his legacy as a key figure in Indian historical research.
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