Here's what we know and what we can speculate:
Evidence suggesting a belief in afterlife:
* Burial practices: Harappan burials often included elaborate grave goods, suggesting that the deceased were thought to need possessions in the afterlife. These goods ranged from pottery and jewelry to tools and even food offerings. The presence of terracotta figurines of animals, which are often associated with fertility and continuity, further suggests a possible belief in an afterlife.
* Ritualistic practices: The discovery of fire altars, along with evidence of ritualistic sacrifices, might indicate the existence of rituals meant to appease the spirits of the deceased.
* Iconography: Some seals and artifacts depict figures in a meditative pose or with attributes that could be interpreted as representing a spiritual journey or transition.
Lack of clear evidence:
* Absence of written records: The Harappan language remains undeciphered, leaving us with limited insight into their beliefs.
* Variety in burial practices: Different burial practices existed in different regions, hinting at potentially diverse beliefs.
Possible interpretations:
While we can't be certain, the evidence suggests the Harappans might have had beliefs about a continuation of life after death, perhaps focusing on a spiritual realm rather than a literal afterlife.
It's crucial to note that these are just interpretations based on the available archaeological data. More research and archaeological discoveries are needed to understand the Harappans' beliefs about the afterlife with greater certainty.