In a fascinating archaeological discovery, the Rudragiri hillock in Orvakally village, Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh, has unveiled a captivating blend of artistry from two distinct periods in history. The site bears witness to prehistoric rock paintings dating back to the Mesolithic period, around 5000 B.C., alongside exquisite artwork from the celebrated Kakatiya dynasty.
Nestled amidst the picturesque Eastern Ghats, the Rudragiri hillock played a significant role as living quarters for people during the Mesolithic age. This era, known as the Middle Stone Age, spanned from 9,000 B.C. to 4,000 B.C., and it marked a transitional phase between the Paleolithic and Neolithic Ages. People during this period relied on hunting, fishing, and food gathering for sustenance.
The site’s allure lies in its three natural caves, each adorned with remarkable murals that offer captivating insights into the art and culture of two distinct historical periods. In the first cave, a mesmerizing narrative mural depicts the intense battle between the Vanara Brothers, Vali and Sugriva. Both figures stand on the battlefield, wielding maces with fierce determination, while Rama, positioned behind Sugriva, takes aim at Vali with an arrow. A Ramayana fresco showcasing Hanuman lifting the Sanjeevani hill with his right hand, alongside sacred symbols of the conch (Sankha) and fire altars, adorns the cave. A prehistoric painting on the left further adds to the allure of this captivating mural.
Moving to the middle cave, visitors are greeted with a grand sketch of Hanuman, accompanied by sacred symbols of the conch (Sankha) and fire altars. The artwork depicts Hanuman carrying the Sanjeevani Hills in his right hand, symbolizing his heroic mission to save Lakshmana’s life.
Lastly, the third cave houses prehistoric rock paintings from the Mesolithic period, serving as a captivating visual representation of the life and artistic expressions of people during that ancient era.
The discovery at Rudragiri hillock sheds new light on the cultural heritage and artistic accomplishments of both the Mesolithic period and the illustrious Kakatiya dynasty, presenting a unique opportunity for archaeologists and historians to unravel the mysteries of the past.