Hidden in Andhra’s Forests: A Wealth of Ancient Rock Paintings and Inscriptions

Hyderabad:

Ancient inscriptions, ranging from 800 to 2000 years old, have been discovered in the Lankkamala Reserve Forest in Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh. This is being hailed as one of the most significant archaeological finds in recent times. The survey conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) also unearthed rock art believed to belong to the megalithic period.

The survey led to the discovery of three rock shelters. One of these shelters contained remarkable prehistoric paintings depicting animals, geometric patterns, and human figures, according to officials.

The paintings, which date back to the Megalithic (Iron Age) and early historic periods (2500 BCE-2nd century CE), were created using natural materials like red ochre, kaolin, animal fat, and crushed bones.

The rock inscriptions, dating between the 4th and 16th centuries CE, suggest that Lankkamala was a major Shaivite pilgrimage center regularly visited by devotees from northern India.

The survey, conducted in the rugged terrain of Nityapujakona, Akkadevatala Konda, and Bandigani Chella, located south of Srisailam, took place between February 27 and March 1. It examined nearly 30 inscriptions in the reserve forest.

According to K Munirathnam, the leader of the survey, the scripts of the inscriptions included Brahmi (4th century CE), Shell (6th century CE), Nagari (Sanskrit), and Telugu characters.

“This is a landmark discovery in the ASI’s history. It helps us ascertain the pilgrimage routes that even North Indians took. It shows how the pilgrimage center of the Shaivite region shifted from here to Srisailam starting in the 4th century,” he added.

Describing the discoveries, he mentioned that the local Forest Range Officer sent them pictures, after which the ASI wrote to Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan.

“We then embarked on an arduous trek, climbing thousands of feet on steep hills to copy the inscriptions through dangerous forests,” said Mr. Munirathnam.

Archaeologists stated that the texts provide valuable insights into the region’s past, shedding light on its history, culture, and traditions.