**The local name of Mohenjodaro is: Mound of Dead**

Mohenjodaro is an ancient city located in the Sindh province of Pakistan. It was one of the major centers of the Indus Valley Civilization, which flourished around 2500 BCE. The name "Mohenjodaro" itself is derived from the Sindhi language and translates to "Mound of Dead" or "Mound of the Dead Men."

**Mound of Dead: The Origin of the Name**

The name "Mohenjodaro" reflects the history and archaeological significance of the site. The city was abandoned and eventually buried under layers of mud and debris over time. When archaeologists discovered the site in the 1920s, they found a large earthen mound that contained the remains of the ancient city. This mound, which had accumulated over centuries, was named Mohenjodaro.

**The City's Abandonment and Burial**

The Indus Valley Civilization, including Mohenjodaro, experienced a gradual decline and eventual abandonment around 1900 BCE. The reasons for its decline and abandonment are still debated among historians and archaeologists. Some theories suggest environmental factors such as changes in the river system or climate, while others propose the possibility of external invasions or socio-political unrest.

As the city was abandoned, it was left to decay and be buried by natural processes. The Indus River, which once flowed near the city, changed its course over time. The resulting floods and sedimentation gradually covered the city, preserving it to a great extent. The layers of mud and debris eventually formed a large mound, which became the recognizable feature of Mohenjodaro.

**The Archaeological Significance of Mohenjodaro**

Mohenjodaro is an incredibly important archaeological site that provides valuable insights into the Indus Valley Civilization. The city's well-preserved structures, intricate urban planning, advanced drainage systems, and artifacts have shed light on the daily life, trade, and cultural practices of this ancient civilization.

The name "Mound of Dead" highlights the fact that Mohenjodaro was a city that was left abandoned and ultimately buried, allowing it to be preserved over thousands of years. It serves as a reminder of the ancient civilization that once thrived there, and the name encapsulates its historical significance and the mysteries that continue to be unraveled through ongoing excavations and research.