An Encyclopaedia of Indian Archaeology v1.c9.s18.t3.5

v1.c9.s18.t3.5

The most important division during the early historical period was the Bhagirathi delta, the fourth physical division. It was so because this region felt the direct impact of the process of second urbanization of the Ganga basin. Of the urban centres which grew up as a result of this impact CHANDRAKETUGARH in 24-Parganas is the largest in dimension. Also known as BERACHAMPA, this site emerged as a fortified town in the 5th century B.C. Its mud rampart wall encircles an area of 13 sq km. Excavations were conducted at Khana-Mihirer Dhipi and Itkholar-danga, both lying within the fortified area. At Khana-Mihirer Dhipi six successive periods of occupation were noticed. In Pd I, assignable to the 4th-3rd century B.C., the NBPW [11.16] and punch-marked coins [3.1] were found. Pd II was distinguished by the usual ceramics of the early Christian era, terracottas of the Śuṅga-Kushan age, numerous copper coins, beads of semiprecious stones, terracotta sealings and other minor antiquities. Pd III yielded the rouletted ware, spouted cups, terracotta figurines, etc. A wooden container of paddy husk was an interesting find. Excavation at Itkholar-danga revealed a sequence from the 6th century B.C. In Pd I punch-marked coins, the NBPW and other objects were noticed. Pd II produced terracotta plaques, cast copper coins and other antiquities. The significant finds from Pd III were the rouletted ware and other objects assignable to the 1st-3rd century A.D. A cutting across the rampart near Itkholar-danga area showed that the rampart, raised on a foundation of brickbats, *surkhi* and potsherds, had two structural phases: the earlier phase belonged to the 1st century B.C., and the later to the next century. Remains of a wooden structure were found below the foundation of the rampart.