Context:
Archaeological Survey of India confirms neolithic age rock carvings in Goa’s Mauxi village
Prehistoric rock paintings of India:
Upper Palaeolithic Period –
- Earliest recorded paintings belong to this period.
- Linear representations, in green and dark red
- Themes – Animal figures, such as bison, elephants, tigers etc. besides stick like human figures.
- Sites – Bhimbetka (Madhya Pradesh), Jwalapuram (Andhra Pradesh).
Mesolithic Period –
- Largest number of paintings belong to this period.
- Themes – Human scenes predominate
- Depict hunting in groups and community dances.
- Animals were painted in naturalistic style and humans in stylistic manner.
- Sites – Pachmarhi and Adamgarh Hills (Madhya Pradesh)
Neolithic-Chalcolithic Period –
- Pottery and metal tools are shown but vividness and vitality disappear.
- Predominant colours – White and red, possibly made by grinding haematite and limestone respectively.
- Theme – Men appear adventurous and animals are shown more youthful and majestic
- Sites – Chambal region, Daimabad (Maharashtra).
Source: Times of India
Previous Year Question
Which one of the following is not a Harappan site?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2019 Prelims]
(a) Chanhudaro
(b) Kot Diji
(c) Sohgaura
(d) Desalpur
Answer: (c)
Explanation:
Sohguara is famous for its copper plate inscription, not a Harappan site.
