Archive · 24 Jan 2026
Real Estate Boom Threatens Ancient Rock Art
A long time ago, people drew pictures on rocks in Hyderabad, India.
These pictures show how they lived, what they ate, and what they believed in.
Some of these rock art sites are very old, from a time called the Mesolithic period, which was between 10,000 and 4,000 years ago.
But now, because of buildings being built and people not taking care of them, many of these art sites are disappearing.
Some were found recently, but they are in danger.
People who study these arts say we should protect them because they are important for understanding our history.
Some paintings were made using special stones and oils, and they show animals like elephants and tortoises.
It's sad that these ancient drawings are being lost, and experts say we should do more to save them.
Ancient rock art sites from the Mesolithic period (10,000-4,000 BC) in Hyderabad are disappearing due to urbanization and neglect.
Sites like Kokapet have already been lost, while others like Gundlapochampally and Manchirevula are under threat.
Paintings depict early human life, including social, cultural, and religious aspects, and show animals like tortoises, fish, and elephants.
Experts discovered rock art sites in 2015 and 2022, but urban development has already claimed one site.
Vandalism and lack of awareness are also contributing to the deterioration of these historical artworks.
- Who
- Early humans, archaeologists, historians, and local residents
- What
- Ancient rock art sites from the Mesolithic period
- When
- Art dates back to 10,000-4,000 BC; recent discoveries in 2015 and 2022
- Where
- Hyderabad, India (Kokapet, Gundlapochampally, Manchirevula, Kothwalguda)
- Why
- Urban development, official apathy, and vandalism
- Location
- Hyderabad, India
- Art Period
- Mesolithic (10,000-4,000 BC)
- Discovered Sites
- Gundlapochampally (2015, 2022), Manchirevula, Kothwalguda, Kokapet
- Art Materials
- Haematite stone, animal fat, tree oil
- Threats
- Urbanization, neglect, vandalism
