Prehistoric relics unearthed in Ballari district
Ballari: Archaeologists have discovered significant prehistoric remains dating back nearly 3,500 to 5,000 years at “Gowdra Moole,” a hilly region located on the west-southwestern outskirts of Tekkalakote town in Siruguppa taluk of Ballari district.
The findings include ancient human skeletal remains, pottery fragments, stone tools and several other artifacts, according to Professor Namita S. Sugandhi of Hartwick College, USA. Excavation activities have been underway for the past one month, involving three dedicated research teams.
The archaeological survey and digging operations are being carried out in and around prominent locations such as Hire Arla, Boodi Dibba, Bale Thota, Jakkeru Gudda and Hudeda Gudda. These areas have yielded a wealth of material evidence that sheds light on human habitation during the Neolithic period.
Researchers have unearthed a variety of objects used by early humans in their daily lives. These include sharp-edged stone weapons, hand axes, animal teeth, grinding stones, mortars, spherical stone balls and several household articles. The artifacts clearly indicate the presence of an organized prehistoric settlement in the region.
Speaking about the importance of the site, Prof. Namita Sugandhi said Tekkalakote holds a unique place in prehistoric studies. “This region shows clear traces of the Stone Age, Neolithic and early Metal Age cultures.
The abundance of pottery of different designs, animal bones and stone implements provides valuable information about human life nearly five millennia ago,” she explained. She further described the site as an ideal destination for students and researchers interested in ancient history.
One of the most remarkable discoveries during the excavation is a human skeletal remain measuring about 5.5 feet in length. Experts believe it belongs to a person who lived around 3,500 to 5,000 years ago. The burial pattern is also distinctive. It appears that stones were placed over the body as part of funeral rituals practiced by prehistoric communities.
Biotechnologist Susan Kirkpatrick Smith from the University of Greece is assisting the team in preserving the skeletal remains and conducting scientific studies to determine their age. She is also guiding researchers on the conservation of broken pottery fragments recovered from the site.
Excavators have also found beads of varying sizes and large earthen pots measuring nearly two feet in height and one foot in diameter. Some of these pots contain nails and appear to have been used in burial ceremonies. According to Prof. Namita, the diversity in design and structure of the pottery suggests well-developed craftsmanship among ancient inhabitants.
The excavation team includes Dr. Yashaswini Jayadevaiah from IIT Kanpur, research scholar G. Rohini from Central University of Kalaburagi and Ashok Abkari, who are jointly documenting and analyzing the findings.
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