Discuss the salient features of the Harappan architecture.

Harappan architecture, particularly during the mature phase (c. 2600–1900 BCE), reflected advanced urban planning, standardisation and civic orientation. Cities were generally laid out on a **grid pattern**, with roads intersecting at right angles and a division between the elevated **citadel** and the lower town. Extensive use of **standardised baked bricks**, often in a 1:2:4 ratio, indicates common construction norms. The civilisation developed sophisticated **drainage and sanitation systems**, including covered drains, soak pits, bathrooms and private wells. Public structures such as the **Great Bath at Mohenjo-daro**, assembly halls and granary-like buildings reveal collective architectural planning. Water management was highly advanced, as seen in **Dholavira’s reservoirs** and Lothal’s water-related structures. Houses were usually organised around courtyards and showed functional planning, ventilation and privacy. Fortifications and regional adaptations are visible at sites such as Kalibangan and Dholavira.