Discuss with elders in your community what units were used for measurement of length in the olden days. Also, using the internet, try to find out about the length scales found in excavations of archaeological sites in India.
Traditional units of length used in India in olden days include: Angula (finger width), which is still used by traditional craftspeople like carpenters and tailors; Dhanusa (bow length); Yojana (a larger unit for measuring distances); Hastha or Hatha (cubit - length from elbow to tip of middle finger); Gaj (yard).
The chapter mentions on Page 4 that India has a rich history of measurement systems dating back to ancient times. Archaeological excavations at Harappan Civilisation sites have revealed objects with ruled markings that could be scales, showing that standardized measurements existed in ancient India.
These findings indicate sophisticated understanding of measurement in ancient Indian civilization.
Explanation
The chapter mentions on Page 4 that India has a rich history of measurement systems with units like angula, dhanusa, and yojana mentioned in ancient Indian literature. The angula is still used by traditional craftspeople. Several objects with ruled markings have been excavated from Harappan Civilisation sites.
Solution Steps
Traditional units of length in India included Angula, Dhanusa, Yojana, Hastha/Hatha, and Gaj
Angula (finger width) is still used by traditional craftspeople like carpenters and tailors
India has a rich history of measurement systems dating back to ancient times
Archaeological excavations at Harappan Civilisation sites revealed objects with ruled markings that could be scales
Standardized measurements existed in ancient India, indicating sophisticated understanding