Scientists claim that the Indus Valley Civilisation is at least 8000 years old, making it the oldest civilisation in the world.
What was the Indus Valley civilisation?
It was an ancient civilisation that flourished along the banks of the Indus River in modern day Pakistan and northwest India. It is also known as the Harappan Civilisation. The ancient sites were discovered and excavated in the 1920s.
Over 1000 cities of the Indus Valley Civilisation have been unearthed, of which Harappa and Mohenjo-daro were the most prominent. While these two sites are in Pakistan, the most important sites in India are Dholavira and Lothal in Gujarat, Kalibangan in Rajasthan and Rakhigarhi in Haryana.
What was unique about the civilization?
The cities were noted for their sophisticated town planning and architecture with streamlined streets and brick houses. There were well built granaries, citadels, burial grounds and great baths. The cities also had a sound drainage and sewerage system. Excavations revealed that the people were proficient in pottery and metal-working and used standard weights and measures.
What are its famous artefacts?
Archaeologists have found remains of seals, toys, jewellery and pottery. The two most famous artefacts associated with this civilisation were found at Mohenjo-Daro. One is a stone statue of a bearded man dubbed the ‘priest-king’ and the second is a small bronze statuette called Dancing Girl.
Why did the civilisation decline?
Scientists believe that the civilisation declined by around 1900BC. It is believed that the civilization most likely suffered natural disasters like flood or drought – the ill effects of climate change. Recent findings suggest that people abandoned the cities due to weakening monsoon and changes in the river’s course.