Ancient Petroglyphs Discovered in Telangana Rock Shelter

Researchers have recently uncovered two ancient petroglyphs on a flat rock surface inside a rock shelter near the Beerappa Temple in Manchirevula, Telangana. This discovery adds to India’s rich prehistoric heritage and offers valuable insights into early human expression and communication systems.

What are Petroglyphs?

Petroglyphs are symbolic images engraved or carved onto rock surfaces by removing parts of the outer layer using harder tools. Unlike painted rock art, known as petrographs, petroglyphs are created through physical alteration of rock. The term originates from Greek words—“petros” meaning stone and “glyphein” meaning to carve. These carvings appear either as shallow scratches or deep indentations on rock surfaces.

Techniques Used in Creation

Ancient artists employed various techniques such as pecking, incising, abrading, drilling, polishing, and scratching to create petroglyphs. These methods required precision and durable tools, indicating a significant level of skill and planning among prehistoric communities. The durability of such engravings has allowed them to survive for thousands of years.

Global Distribution and Indian Examples

Petroglyphs are found across all continents except Antarctica, with high concentrations in regions such as Africa, South America, North America, Siberia, Australia, and parts of Europe. In India, a well-known example is the Edakkal Caves in Kerala, which feature intricate carvings believed to date back to prehistoric times. The Telangana discovery further strengthens evidence of widespread ancient artistic activity in the Indian subcontinent.

Important Facts for Exams

• Petroglyphs are rock engravings created by removing surface material, unlike painted petrographs.
• The term is derived from Greek words “petros” (stone) and “glyphein” (to carve).
• They are found globally except in Antarctica.
• Edakkal Caves in Kerala is a major petroglyph site in India.

Significance in Prehistoric Culture

Petroglyphs represent some of the earliest forms of human artistic expression and are considered the foundation of visual art. They also served practical purposes such as communication, marking territorial boundaries, and recording astronomical observations. Some petroglyphs even functioned as “rock gongs,” producing sounds when struck, indicating their possible role in ritual or musical practices.