New insights on metrology during theMauryan period

摘要

Dimensional analysis of the oldest engineered caves at Barabar and Nagarjuni hills (dated to the Mauryan Period) has revealed that the basic length measure (angulam) of this period was 1.763 cm. The planning of these cave complexes was executed usingthe traditional measurement units mentioned in the Arthasastra, in particular the danda measuring 96 angulams. As the basic length measure is also noted in several Harappan civilization sites, this study confirms that Harappan metrological ideas were transmitted virtually unchanged from the Harappan civilization to the Ganga civilization, thereby proving the continuity of the people themselves who built their settlements upon this tradition.