Context:
Recently, a team of archaeologists discovered a 3,000-year-old geoglyph in the form of a circle in the Medchal-Malkajgiri district of Telangana.
What are Geoglyphs?
- Geoglyphs are large-scale designs or motifs created on the ground using earth and stone.
- They are often found in arid regions, where they are better preserved.
Discovery of other Geoglyphs in India:
- Boha geoglyphs –
- Location – Thar Desert of Rajasthan
- It consists of a variety of geometric shapes, including spirals, lines, and circles.
- They are thought to be over 2,000 years old, but their purpose remains a mystery.
- Konkan geoglyphs –
- Location – Konkan region of Maharashtra and Goa.
- They are smaller than the Boha geoglyphs, but are more intricate and detailed.
- They depict a variety of animals, plants, and geometric shapes.
- They are thought to be between 500 and 2,000 years old.
- Rajasthan geoglyphs –
- They are smaller and less well-known than the Boha geoglyphs, but they are still impressive.
- Some of the Rajasthan geoglyphs depict animals, plants, and people.
Nazca lines (Peru), Atacama Giant (Chile), Blynthe Intaglios (USA) are some of the famous Geoglyphs of the world.
Significance of Geoglyphs:
- The discovery of geoglyphs in India has opened a new chapter in the study of prehistoric art in the country.
- They provide key proof of the existence of certain types of faunal lifeforms that are no longer present in the region today.
- The geoglyph also provides valuable insights into the lives and beliefs of the Iron Age settlements.
Source: The Hindu
Previous Year Question
In which of the following relief sculpture inscriptions is ‘Ranyo Ashoka’ (King Ashoka) mentioned along with the stone portrait of Ashoka?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2019 Prelims]
(a) Kanganahalli
(b) Sanchi
(c) Shahbazagrhi
(d) Sohgaura
Answer: (a)
