CUET UG 2026 History Notes: Indus Valley Civilization Explained for BHU and AU Target Batch
The preparation for CUET UG 2026 is gaining momentum among students targeting prestigious institutions like Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and the University of Allahabad (AU). One of the most important topics in the History section is the Indus Valley Civilization, which forms a fundamental part of ancient Indian history and is frequently asked in entrance examinations.
For aspirants preparing for the CUET BHU/AU Target Batch, understanding the origin, naming, discovery, and key features of the Indus Valley Civilization is essential for scoring well in the history section.
Indus Valley Civilization: Time Period and Overview
The Indus Valley Civilization, also known as the Harappan Civilization, flourished approximately between 2500 BC and 1500 BC, though some historians extend the broader cultural phase from 2350 BC to 1750 BC.
It was one of the earliest urban civilizations in the world and developed mainly along the Indus River and its tributaries. The civilization is well known for its advanced urban planning, drainage systems, standardized weights and measures, and trade networks.
Naming of the Indus Valley Civilization
Historians and archaeologists have used different names to describe this ancient civilization based on geographical and archaeological discoveries.
1. Harappan Civilization
The civilization was named Harappan Civilization because the first archaeological site discovered was Harappa. The entire civilization was later identified and studied based on this discovery.
2. Indus Valley Civilization
It is also called the Indus Valley Civilization because many of its major settlements were located along the Indus River and its surrounding regions.
3. Bronze Age Civilization
The civilization is also referred to as a Bronze Age Civilization because people during that period widely used bronze tools and artifacts.
Discovery of Harappa
The discovery of the Harappan civilization developed gradually through different historical observations and excavations.
1826 – Charles Masson
In 1826, Charles Masson first drew attention to the ruins of Harappa and recorded the existence of ancient remains in the region.
1856 – John Brunton and William Brunton
During the construction of the Lahore–Karachi railway line, engineers John Brunton and William Brunton used bricks from the Harappa site, which brought further attention to the ancient ruins.
1921 – Excavation by Dayaram Sahni
Scientific excavation of the Harappa site began in 1921 under the supervision of archaeologist Dayaram Sahni, which officially confirmed the existence of the Indus Valley Civilization.
Location of Harappa
The ancient city of Harappa is located in the Punjab province of present-day Pakistan, specifically in the Sahiwal district.
The settlement was situated near the Ravi River, which played an important role in supporting agriculture, trade, and settlement development in the region.
Archaeological Evidence Found at Harappa
Archaeologists discovered several important artifacts and structures during excavations at Harappa. These findings provide valuable insight into the life and culture of the people of the Indus Valley Civilization.
Major discoveries include:
• Large granaries (food storage structures)
• Wheeled carts made of clay
• Stone statues and figurines
• Seals with engraved symbols
• Bull and animal motifs on seals
• Bronze mirrors and metal objects
These artifacts suggest that the Harappan people had a highly organized society, advanced craftsmanship, and well-developed trade systems.
Importance of Indus Valley Civilization for CUET UG 2026
The Indus Valley Civilization is one of the most important topics in the History syllabus for CUET UG. Questions are often asked about:
• Naming of the civilization
• Discovery of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro
• Archaeologists involved in excavation
• Time period of the civilization
• Major archaeological discoveries
Students preparing for BHU and Allahabad University through CUET UG 2026 should revise these topics thoroughly and practice previous year questions to strengthen their conceptual understanding.
CUET UG 2026 history syllabus
Indus Valley Civilization CUET notes
Harappan civilization CUET preparation
CUET BHU history preparation
CUET AU history notes
Harappa discovery history CUET
Bronze age civilization India.
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