Archaeologists have uncovered what may be a long-lost city described in the earliest sacred texts of India, shedding light on a once-thriving civilization that flourished thousands of years ago.
The discovery, made in Bahaj village of the Deeg district in the state of Rajasthan, has revealed a vast settlement with deep cultural, religious, and economic significance. This lost city in India could reshape understandings of early human habitation in the region.
The excavation, led by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), began in January 2024. Researchers say the site dates back to as far as 4500 BC, with signs of continuous occupation from 3500 to 1000 BC.
Among the most striking findings is an ancient riverbed located 23 meters (75 feet) below the surface. Experts believe this network of dried channels once formed part of the Saraswati River, a waterway long referenced in ancient Indian scriptures, including the Rigveda.
Evidence points to a link with the Saraswati River
The presence of this river system supports theories that early civilizations settled along its banks. Historians have long debated the physical existence of the Saraswati, often considered a mythical river.
The new evidence adds weight to claims that this water source was real and possibly central to the growth of early human settlements in northwest India.
Deeg, Rajasthan: The ASI has discovered evidence of a 2,000-year-old civilization at Bahaj village. This is the largest excavation in the state since Kalibangan.
Findings include remnants of an extinct river, artifacts from Ochre Coloured Pottery (OCP) culture, painted grey… pic.twitter.com/aviV3C9I5a
— IANS (@ians_india) June 28, 2025
Excavations have uncovered more than 800 artifacts so far. These include pottery painted with geometric patterns, bone tools, copper utensils, and coins. Some seals bear what scholars believe to be the earliest known example of Brahmi script on the Indian subcontinent.
Religious structures were also found on site, including sacred fire pits and ritual tanks associated with goddess worship. Statues of deities, such as Shiva and Parvati, were recovered, along with multiple symbols of ceremonial life.
Findings reveal trade, craft, and ritual practices
The ASI, working in coordination with India’s Ministry of Culture, has documented the findings in a detailed report. Iron and copper tools point to advanced knowledge of metallurgy.
Other discoveries, such as beads made from semi-precious stones and bangles carved from conch shells, point to active trade and a community with a strong sense of aesthetics and craft.
Human skeletal remains were also unearthed. These have been sent to Israel for further examination. Officials say the findings strengthen the case of designating the site a National Archaeological Heritage location, ensuring its protection and study.
A vast number of coins from the Shunga and Kushan periods further point to the area’s economic activity over various historical eras. Experts believe the concentration of currency suggests Bahaj may have served as a regional hub for trade and commerce.
As researchers continue to unearth new clues, the ancient settlement in Bahaj stands as a major archaeological breakthrough—one that brings the story of a “lost city” from ancient sacred text closer to historical reality in India.
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