Tracing Lahore’s Origins: Pervaiz Vandal Delivers Insightful Talk at Akbari Mahal Kutub Khana

LAHORE: An engaging talk on the fascinating origins of Lahore through the lens of the Harappan Civilization was held at Akbari Mahal Kutub Khana & Archives, Lahore Fort, where renowned scholar and architect Pervaiz Vandal shared valuable insights into the region’s deep historical, cultural, and geographical roots.

Speaking on the occasion, he explained that Lahore’s origins extend far beyond medieval history and must be understood within the broader framework of the Harappan Civilization (formerly the Indus Valley Civilization). He emphasized the crucial role of geography, river systems, trade routes, and cultural continuity in shaping the region’s identity and historical development.

He further highlighted that the Harappan Civilization spanned a vast territory from present-day India to Afghanistan, making it one of the world’s largest and most interconnected ancient civilizations. Pointing to river networks and fertile plains, he noted that trade served as the backbone of its prosperity and urban growth.

Pervaiz Vandal observed that, unlike many ancient civilizations rooted in conquest, imperial dominance, and slave economies, the Harappan Civilization flourished through trade, craftsmanship, peaceful coexistence, and structured systems of conflict resolution. He pointed out that the absence of grand palaces and war monuments reflects a society based on balance and cooperation rather than power and domination.

He further emphasized that Lahore’s geographical position and historical role as a major trade center strongly indicate continuity with the Harappan world. According to him, cultural, linguistic, and settlement continuity remains one of the strongest indicators of Lahore’s ancient civilizational linkages.

He also underlined the importance of independent local scholarship, urging researchers to move beyond colonial interpretations of South Asian history and reconnect with indigenous narratives supported by archaeological evidence.

Organized by the Walled City of Lahore Authority, the talk aimed to promote awareness of history, culture, heritage, and civilization. The session appreciated Pervaiz Vandal for his valuable contribution to understanding Lahore’s historical roots and civilizational continuity. It was moderated by Talha Shafeeq, In-charge of Akbari Mahal Library, and highlighted the importance of revisiting Lahore’s ancient past through historical and archaeological perspectives. At the conclusion of the session, the Director General of the Walled City of Lahore Authority presented a souvenir to Pervaiz Vandal in recognition of his scholarly contribution.

The talk proved to be an enriching experience for historians, students, researchers, and heritage enthusiasts, reaffirming Lahore’s significance as a living continuation of one of the world’s oldest urban civilizations.