Indus Valley | Clues to an Ancient Civilization, National Geographic: Mendicants Travel Expanded Trade Networks | Indus Valley, Pakistan

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Expanded trade networks are thought to represent the initial steps toward urbanization.  LaLa Wallies (beggar pilgrims or mendicants) pass prayers and figurines from women who can’t conceive to their saint of fertility and receive meals as part of the process. It allows these women to become part of a larger network through these ad hoc communicators.  In ancient times these pilgrimages contributed to standardization and integration of communities. LaLa Wallies walk the ancient trade routes between Lahore and Multan and then gather together to go to the Saint’s Tomb.