Q. Consider the following statements with respect to Bhimbetka cave paintings:

1. The caves of Bhimbetka were discovered in 1957-58 by eminent archaeologist V. S. Wakankar.
2. The Bhimbetka caves paintings are largely confined to Palaeolithic period only.

Which of the above is / are correct?
Answer: Only 1
Notes: Only the first statement is correct. The caves of Bhimbetka were discovered in 1957-58 by eminent archaeologist V.S. Wakankar and later on many more were discovered. The second statement is incorrect. The rock art of Bhimbetka has been classified into various groups on the bases of style, technique and superimposition. The drawings and paintings can be catagorised into seven historical periods. Period I- Upper Palaeolithic; Period II - Mesolithic; and Period III-Chalcolithic.