Nearly 5000 years ago there existed a highly developed civilization in the Indus Valley. It came to be known in the 3rd decade of this century when excavations were made by archeologists in the northwest part of India. The first excavated sites discovered the ancient cities of Harappa and Mohen Jo-Daro. The evidence found in the ruins of these cities, revealed an ancient people primarily urban and sophisticated in building methods and city planning. Further study shows the Indus people used precious metal and stones to make various jewelry, ornaments, sculptures and other forms of art.
Many scholars debate the causes for their decline and eventual extinction.
Whatever the reason for their disappearance, scholars do agree that the Indus people had a great influence over the later growth of India's culture and civilization. 20 minutes . . . To people the world over the Taj Mahal is synonymous with India. This magnificent mausoleum is invariably included in the list of the foremost wonders of the world. Built almost entirely of white marble this gently swelling structure was created as the final resting place for Muntae Mahal, wife of Shah Jahan.