In the realm of archaeology, the name Rakhaldas Banerjee may not be commonly recognized, yet his pivotal role in uncovering the ancient city of Mohenjo-daro marks a significant chapter in world history. Banerjee, an Indian archaeologist whose life straddled brilliance and controversy, was responsible for revealing the remnants of what is now understood as one of the largest cities of the Indus Valley Civilization, which spanned from present-day Afghanistan to India during the Bronze Age.
Banerjee, also known for his remarkable talent in deciphering scripts, worked under the auspices of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) during British colonial rule. His tenacity led him across various parts of India, where he searched for ancient artifacts and remnants of early civilizations. Although his discovery of Mohenjo-daro in the early 1900s was revolutionary, Banerjee's legacy has often been overshadowed by disputes and controversies that questioned his methodology and conduct.
Historical accounts suggest that Banerjee's reports on Mohenjo-daro were never formally published by the ASI, with allegations surrounding the suppression of his findings by then ASI chief John Marshall, who subsequently took credit for the discovery. Prof. PK Mishra highlighted this erasure, emphasizing how Banerjee has become an overlooked figure in education, compared to Marshall’s prominent portrayal as the discoverer.
Banerjee's independent and often contentious nature may have led to his diminished legacy. For instance, he was embroiled in several disputes over his practices at ASI, including unauthorized attempts to procure museum artifacts. In her examination, historian Nayanjot Lahiri remarked on Banerjee’s lack of diplomacy, suggesting that his strong personality may have alienated peers, contributing to his muted recognition in historical narratives.
Born in 1885 in Bengal, Banerjee was captivated by historical monuments during his youth, which propelled him into his academic pursuits. His career saw rapid ascent after joining the ASI as an excavation assistant in 1910, eventually culminating in his uncovering of Mohenjo-daro significant discoveries of ancient seals, coins, and Buddhist stupas during excavations from 1919 through 1923. His explorations helped illuminate the long-forgotten cities of the Indus Valley Civilization.
Yet, by 1924, Banerjee faced financial constraints and was transferred to eastern India amidst allegations regarding his spending and management of excavation funds. This marked a turning point in his career, leading to disputes that culminated in his resignation from ASI in 1927 following a scandal concerning the theft of a religious idol, wherein he was later vindicated but compelled to resign nonetheless.
Post-ASI, Banerjee taught at various institutions, though his financial struggles persisted, potentially due to his extravagant lifestyle. Tragically, his life concluded prematurely when he passed away in 1930 at the age of 45. While he may not be a household name, the shadows of his discoveries linger in the annals of history, presenting a tale of exceptional talent, controversy, and the complex landscape of archaeological endeavors in colonial India.
