Archaeologists working at the Dholavira site in the Rann of Kutch have unearthed a massive structure identified as a Masonry Guildhall, dating back to the Mature Harappan period. The complex contains a central courtyard surrounded by specialized chambers where researchers found dozens of sandstone 'master templates' used to standardize the dimensions of architectural blocks and drainage slabs across the city.
This discovery provides the first physical evidence of a centralized architectural regulatory body within the Indus Valley Civilization. The presence of stone-cutting debris, unfinished decorative friezes, and sophisticated measuring rods suggests that the guildhall was a hub for both training master masons and maintaining the strict urban planning standards that characterized Harappan cities. Experts believe this find will revolutionize our understanding of how ancient laborers were organized and managed during large-scale construction projects.