The functionalist theory of indus urbanism: A systems based reinterpretation of the Dholavira signboard and Harappan administrative protocols

A novel 'Functionalist Theory' reinterprets the Indus Valley Civilization (IVC) as a highly organized, system-driven society governed by universal iconography and standardized protocols. The Dholavira Signboard is proposed as a functional public security notice, while Indus Seals are seen as a passport/ID system, challenging traditional religious-monarchic interpretations. The theory suggests the civilization's decline was due to 'Systemic Saturation Point,' where extreme rigidity and population thinning led to logical de-urbanization rather than external conquest.

Pradeep Awana. (2026). The functionalist theory of indus urbanism: A systems based reinterpretation of the Dholavira signboard and Harappan administrative protocols [Zenodo]. https://doi.org/10.5281/ZENODO.18651580