Which tree is frequently shown on the seals and pottery of the Indus Valley civilisation?

The pipal tree (Ficus religiosa), or its leaves, is frequently shown on seals, sealings and painted pottery of the Indus Valley civilisation.

The pipal in Harappan art:

• Pipal leaves are a common design on Harappan painted pottery.
• Some seals show a figure standing within the branches of a pipal tree, with another figure kneeling before it, which suggests worship.
• Some scholars interpret this as evidence of tree worship, or of a deity associated with the tree.
• The heads of animals, such as the unicorn, are sometimes shown emerging from a stylised pipal tree.

Tree worship in India:

• The worship of trees and plants is an ancient tradition in India.
• The pipal is considered sacred in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.
• In Hinduism, it is associated with Vishnu and other deities, and is worshipped by many people, especially women, who tie threads around its trunk.
• In Buddhism, the Buddha attained enlightenment under a pipal tree at Bodh Gaya; this tree is called the "Bodhi tree".

About the pipal tree:

• Its scientific name is "Ficus religiosa"; it belongs to the fig family.
• It has heart-shaped leaves with a long, tapering tip.
• It is known for releasing oxygen even at night, according to popular belief (though this is debated).
• It is the state tree of Bihar, Haryana and Odisha.

Other religious beliefs of the Harappans:

• Worship of a mother goddess (based on female figurines).
• Worship of a male deity (the "Pashupati" seal).
• Worship of animals, such as the humped bull.
• Use of fire altars at some sites.

Why not the other options?

• ✗The banyan is India's national tree.
• ✗Neem and mango are common trees in India, but the pipal is the tree most often shown in Harappan art.