Rock Art at Rudragiri Hillock

• A fusion of Rock Art has been found at Rudragiri Hillock in Andhra Pradesh.
• The site unveils a fascinating combination of prehistoric rock paintings from the Mesolithic period (Middle Stone Age) and exquisite artwork from the Kakatiya dynasty.
  • Mesolithic Period corresponds to period from 12,000 years ago till about 10,000 years ago.
• The site includes five naturally formed rock shelters that served as living quarters during the Mesolithic age, around 5000 B.C.
• The Kakatiya-era paintings display scenes from the epic Ramayana and are adorned with a variety of colours derived from white kaolin and different pigments.
• One of the caves depicts a fierce battle between the Vanara brothers Vali and Sugriva, with Rama shooting arrows at Vali.
• Another cave features a grand sketch of Hanuman carrying the Sanjivani hill in his right hand, symbolizing his mission to save Lakshmana’s life.

ABOUT KAKATIYA DYNASTY

• Kakatiyas was an Andhra dynasty that flourished in the 12th century CE.
• They ruled from Warangal from CE 1083-1323.
• Were known for the construction of a network of tanks for irrigation and drinking water purposes.
• There are hundreds of Hindu temples built under the patronage of Kakatiya kings like Ganapati Deva, Rudrama Devi and Prataparudra in the Kakatiya dynasty. For e.g Thousand Pillar Temple or Rudreshwara Swamy Temple. It is a star-shaped, shrine dedicated to Vishnu, Shiva and Surya.