Introduction
The story we tell here is largely based on speculation. There is little scientific evidence to support these events, except for the dates of eclipses and the drying up of the Sarasvati River. This story explores the climatic, mythological and cultural impacts associated with this legendary region.
1. Around 6200 BCE: A worldwide drought and the myth of Shushna
A severe drought hits the northern hemisphere, accompanied by global cooling. This event causes vast migrations.
The myth of Shushna , describing the arrival of a conqueror with his army, could symbolize the entry of new peoples into India. Unlike the accounts of the 19th century, this myth does not refer to the black-skinned Dasyus , nor to the famous » Aryans « .
2. Around 5300 BCE: An unprecedented volcanic eruption
The eruption of a supervolcano off the coast of Japan marks human history. It is said to have generated climatic upheavals and inspired the myth of Vritra , the serpent who holds back the waters and obscures the sun with a huge cloud. Again, no mention is made of Dasyus.
3. 5300 – 3500 BCE: The Battles of the Bharatas
- Divodâsa , king of the Bharatas, fights the Dâsa Shambara , destroying his 99 fortresses. These battles show us a struggle for control of the seven rivers .
- A century later, Sudâsa , grandson of Divodâsa, won the war of the ten kings . This victory sealed a period of peace, reinforced by the first compilation of the Rig Veda (mandalas 2 to 7). The consumption of soma , a sacred drink, played a key role in this harmony.
4. 3500 BCE: Birth of cities and spiritual stabilization
The first cities emerge. Peaceful life becomes the norm, driven by a spirituality anchored in everyday life. The Rig Veda continues to evolve with the addition of mandalas 1, 8 and 9.
5. 2600 BCE: The Golden Age of the Indus-Sarasvati Civilization
This period marks the economic and cultural peak. Exports prosper, and the population seems to live in total flourishing. The Rig Veda , transmitted orally, is the dominant sacred text.
6. 2200 BCE: The shortage of soma and the first upheavals
A major drought affects the production of soma . Other plants, such as ephedra and cannabis, are used, but their effects do not replace the entheogenic experience of soma .
Society begins to lose sight of deep spirituality. The hymns of the Rig Veda reflect new concerns.
7. 2000 – 1900 BCE: Earthquakes and decline of Sarasvati
Earthquakes change the course of the Yamuna and Sutlej , depriving the Sarasvati of its main tributaries. The 10th mandala of the Rig Veda is added. Civilization gradually migrates towards the Indus and the Ganges.
8. 1900 – 1400 BCE: The end of an era
Migration continued, except in Gujarat, where some communities remained until 1400 BCE. Over time, spirituality transformed into religion. Vedanta and Hinduism emerged , taking over from the Rig Veda.
Le Rig Veda 