History enthusiasts from Kotha Telangana Charithra Brundam have uncovered a new prehistoric rock art site within a cave in Yadgarpalli village, Keesara mandal, Medchal-Malkajgiri district.
Ahobilam Karunakar and Naseeruddin discovered the new rock art site at coordinates 17.401043° N, 80.815642° E, inside a cave formed by granite boulders on the outskirts of the village. The paintings, created using red and white ochre, primarily depict stick-like human figures characteristic of prehistoric art styles.
Among the most striking features of the newly discovered site is a large battle scene painted on a rock surface, depicting warriors engaged in combat with bows, arrows, and swords. The scene clearly distinguishes between victorious and defeated fighters. Alongside the warriors, various animals such as elephants, tigers, and horses are also illustrated.
Other scenes include groups of humans holding hands and dancing with weapons, an ox-like creature, handprints, a figure riding a horse-like animal, and an aquatic creature resembling a turtle. A particularly prominent figure is a warrior on horseback, painted in white and standing out amidst the predominantly red artwork. Many of the white figures have faded over time, with some red paintings superimposed over them, making the earlier white illustrations less visible. In one section, white paintings depict animals, hunting scenes, and four human figures carrying their hunted prey.
“By analysing the use of red and white ochre, the artistic style, and the themes of the paintings, along with the microlithic tools found nearby, it’s evident that this site was inhabited by prehistoric humans,” said S. Haragopal, convener of Kotha Telangana Charithra Brundam. “The presence of polished stone tools suggests that this painted rock shelter was in use from the Mesolithic period through to the historical era,” he added.
Earlier, the same team of historians had discovered rock art sites in the nearby villages of Kashipet, Pyararam, Lingannapet, and Muchintala, all located in proximity to the newly found site.
