Explanation: The Indus Valley Civilization, also known as the Harappan Civilization, is one of the world's earliest urban civilizations, dating back to the Bronze Age. It was a highly developed society that flourished in the northwestern regions of the Indian subcontinent, primarily in present-day Pakistan and parts of western India. The civilization is named after the Indus River, which was a crucial part of its development and sustenance.
The rediscovery of Harappa, one of the key sites of the Indus Valley Civilization, is a significant event in the history of archaeology and Indian history. The site was first excavated in 1920 by Rai Bahadur Daya Ram Sahni, an Indian archaeologist. This discovery marked the beginning of extensive archaeological work in the region, leading to the unearthing of numerous other sites and artifacts that provided valuable insights into the life, culture, and society of the Indus Valley Civilization.
The discovery of Harappa was not an isolated event. Another important site, Mohenjo-daro, was also discovered around the same time, in 1922, by Rakhaldas Bandyopadhyay. These discoveries were pivotal in understanding the extent and complexity of the Indus Valley Civilization, which was previously unknown to the modern world.
The rediscovery of Harappa in the 1920s was a turning point in the study of ancient Indian history. It provided evidence of a highly advanced urban civilization that existed in the region thousands of years ago. The excavations revealed well-planned cities with sophisticated drainage systems, granaries, and public baths, indicating a high level of urban planning and social organization.
The significance of the rediscovery of Harappa extends beyond archaeology. It has had a profound impact on our understanding of ancient Indian history and culture. The findings have challenged earlier notions about the development of civilization in the Indian subcontinent and have provided a rich source of information for historians, archaeologists, and anthropologists.
In summary, the rediscovery of Harappa in the 1920s was a crucial event in the field of archaeology and Indian history. It marked the beginning of extensive research into the Indus Valley Civilization, providing valuable insights into one of the world's earliest urban civilizations. The correct answer to the question is (D) 1920s, as this is the decade when the initial excavations at Harappa were conducted, leading to the rediscovery of this ancient site.