Question

What is the special feature of the paintings found in Madhya Pradesh and southern Uttar Pradesh?

Answer 1

Hint: Paintings and sculptures on natural rock formations are known as rock art. It is one of the earliest kinds of artistic expression, and it's very frequent in prehistoric societies. It is an assemblage of material culture that provides a view into the lives of the individuals who painted them rather than merely being art.

Complete answer:
In terms of style and theme, the diversity of rock art available in India is extensive. Its timeline spans the Upper Paleolithic to the present day, and it includes brief peeks of today's tribal societies. Rock drawings have been discovered on the walls of caves in various Indian states, including Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Uttarakhand, and Bihar.

Central India has the highest concentration of rock art, with the Kaimur Hills, Satpura, and Vindhyas having the highest concentration. The rock shelters are located in the deep forest area, and the hills are made of sandstone. Because they were environmentally excellent, they were occupied in the Stone Age and later times. Several Central Indian paintings resemble Neolithic paintings from Rhodesia, Eastern Spain, South Africa, and Australia. Hunting, conflicts, dancing events, and various human and animal figures are depicted in the paintings.

Wild animals have been painted with amazing accuracy and ability in the paintings found in Madhya Pradesh and southern Uttar Pradesh.

Note: The paintings show imagination, creativity, emotions, and tenderness, making rock art a window into the prehistoric mind. It is the most important source for studying prehistoric societies' culture, rituals, traditions, and lifestyle. Scientists try to date the paintings using a multidisciplinary approach, while artists try to figure out what they imply.