Rock Art of Pachmarhi Biosphere : Mesolithic to Historic Times

Contents: Foreword. Preface. 1. Introduction. 2. Distribution and classification of the painted rock shelters of Pachmarhi. 3. Themes of the rock paintings of Pachmarhi. 4. Analytical study. 5. A comparative study. 6. Observations and suggestions by way of conclusion. Bibliography.

One  of the largest concentrations of painted rock shelters in the country is found in the Pachmarhi Hills in the folds of the Satpura ranges. These hills are full of rock shelters, many of them large and painted. Ecologically, the location of the Pachmarhi hills is quite suitable with large shelters, dense forest, water sources and high overhangs of rocks with honeycombs. The subject matter of the Pachmarhi paintings is rich and varied. A variety of cultural dance and music, religious rites, domestic copulation, relaxation and recreation and economic collection of honey, food, fishing, hunting and transportation of loads activities are shown in the paintings of earlier periods. The drawings of later periods show soldiers, fighters, riders and head hunters.  Human figures 3449 account for all art activities. these figures represent different age groups. Twenty five animal species totalling up to 2008 figures, include big cats, elephants, deer antelopes, reptiles and insects. Sometimes fowl and peafowl have also been depicted. Brahmi and Nagri script were found in Pachmarhi. (jacket)