Prehistoric Rock Shelters and Ancient Paintings Discovered at Indrapalanagaram

History enthusiasts and researchers from the Matti Foundation have discovered prehistoric rock shelters, rare rock paintings, stone tools, pottery, and other archaeological remains at Shankaram Gutta in Indrapalanagaram, Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district. Researchers estimate that some of the uncovered evidence dates back approximately 10,000 years.

The research team, including Reddy Ratnakar Reddy, identified the previously undocumented rock shelters associated with prehistoric human habitation on the hill. Opposite the path leading to the Yellamma temple, the team found faded red paintings on a large exposed rock.

According to Ratnakar Reddy, the paintings were fully exposed to the elements with no natural shade, making their survival unusual. The team determined that a layer of traditional lime mortar was applied to the rock surface first, and the red paintings were subsequently painted over it.

Indrapalanagaram is recognized as an early capital of the Vishnukundins, who ruled parts of modern-day Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Odisha from the 5th to the 7th century CE. The site also holds ties to later historical eras, as the Pancheshwara temple located at the foot of the hill is believed to have been constructed during the reign of Kakatiya ruler Rudrama Devi.