This chapter provides a comprehensive analysis of the authorship and cultural context of the Harappan civilisation, highlighting the ongoing debates regarding its origins and connections to later cultures, particularly the Vedic traditions. It critically examines historical interpretations and methodologies used by scholars to understand the Harappan society. The authorship of the Harappan civilisation has been a contentious issue since its discovery, with various hypotheses emerging over time. The chapter also critiques Marshall's reliance on racial characteristics to draw comparisons between the Sumerians and Dravidians, which has been deemed outdated and unconvincing. The assertion that Harappans were “Aryans” based on linguistic grounds is criticised as flawed, as language and race cannot be directly correlated. Archaeological findings, particularly in the context of pottery and architectural styles, indicate a strong continuity from the Harappan to the late Harappan phase and many cultural practices, such as craft production and urban planning, persisted despite changes in material culture. The cultural continuities from the Harappan period to modern times are also highlighted, including religious practices, symbols, and traditions. For instance, the worship of the pipal tree and its representation in Harappan art has persisted into contemporary Indian culture, where it holds significant religious importance. The analysis concludes that the question of Harappan authorship remains complex, with no consensus among scholars. While some argue for significant migrations and invasions, others advocate for a view of continuity and adaptation within the region. The DNA studies are also inconclusive, as their results do not correlate with the archaeological evidence. The document emphasises the need for further interdisciplinary studies, combining archaeological, linguistic, and genetic evidence to better understand the intricacies of cultural evolution in ancient South Asia.