Concept notes: The Indus Valley Civilisation, also known as the Harappan Civilisation, was one of the world's earliest urban civilisations, flourishing around 2600 BCE to 1900 BCE. It was centred in the northwestern regions of the Indian subcontinent, primarily in present-day Pakistan and northwest India. The two largest cities of this civilisation were Harappa and Mohenjodaro, which were significant for their urban planning, architecture, and advanced drainage systems.
Explanation: The Indus Valley Civilisation, also known as the Harappan Civilisation, was one of the earliest urban civilisations in the world, flourishing around 2600 BCE to 1900 BCE. It was centred in the northwestern regions of the Indian subcontinent, primarily in present-day Pakistan and northwest India. The civilisation is named after the Indus River, which was a crucial part of its geography and economy.
The two largest and most significant cities of the Indus Valley Civilisation were Harappa and Mohenjodaro. These cities were discovered in the early 20th century and have provided valuable insights into the urban planning, architecture, and social structure of this ancient civilisation. Both Harappa and Mohenjodaro were well-planned cities with a grid-like layout, advanced drainage systems, and evidence of a sophisticated social hierarchy.
Harappa, located in the Punjab region of Pakistan, was one of the first sites to be excavated and studied. It revealed a well-organised city with a citadel, residential areas, and a granary. The citadel was likely used for administrative and religious purposes, while the residential areas were divided into blocks with individual houses.
Mohenjodaro, located in the Sindh region of Pakistan, was the largest city of the Indus Valley Civilisation. It was also well-planned with a grid-like layout and a sophisticated drainage system. The city had a citadel, a great bath, and a granary. The great bath was a large public bath that was likely used for religious or social purposes.
The other options provided in the question are incorrect. Kabul and Karachi are modern cities in Afghanistan and Pakistan, respectively, and are not part of the ancient Indus Valley Civilisation. Varanasi, while an ancient city in India, is not associated with the Indus Valley Civilisation. It is located in the Gangetic plains and is known for its historical and religious significance.
Understanding the cities of the Indus Valley Civilisation is crucial for comprehending the development of urbanisation and civilisation in the Indian subcontinent. The advanced urban planning and sophisticated social structures of Harappa and Mohenjodaro provide valuable insights into the early stages of human civilisation and the development of complex societies.