Papers by Sachin Kumar Tiwary
Heritage: Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies in Archaeology 11.2 (2023-24): 467-507, 2025
Dantari Hill, in Uttar Pradesh's Kaimur range, is a significant archaeological site. This
researc... more Dantari Hill, in Uttar Pradesh's Kaimur range, is a significant archaeological site. This
research explores its rich cultural heritage, including microlithic tools, painted rock shelters, megalithic
burials, and historical inscriptions. The study investigates the rock art's significance, symbolism, and
cultural context, starting with an overview of Dantari Hill's geography, water resources, and
archaeological finds. The painted rock shelters are examined for their artistic and symbolic content, with
detailed micro-documentation of the pictographs. The paper traces the site's chronology from the
Mesolithic period through the Iron Age and historical periods into the early medieval era, analysing
microlithic tools, rock art, megalithic structures, inscriptions and ceramics. The findings suggest Dantari
Hill's strategic location, natural resources, and spiritual significance made it a vital site for human
settlement and cultural activities over millennia. This research underscores Dantari Hill's cultural and
historical importance, highlighting the need for further exploration and preservation to uncover deeper
insights into ancient civilisations and cultural heritage.
Heritage: Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies in Archaeology 11.1 (2023-24): 927-939, 2025
This study is a comprehensive exploration of the microlithic tool assemblages from the
megalithic... more This study is a comprehensive exploration of the microlithic tool assemblages from the
megalithic site of Dantari in Mirzapur District, India. The microlithic technology, which can be traced
back to the late Pleistocene in the Indian subcontinent, demonstrates a remarkable continuity and
advancement up to the Iron Age, spanning a significant period of human history. Based on the analysis of
605 systematically collected artefacts and 250 randomly gathered artefacts from Dantari, our research
unveils using crypto-crystalline siliceous raw materials, primarily chert, for tool production. The site's
significant technological flexibility and behavioural modernity of its ancient inhabitants are evident. We
employed a systematic grid-based collection method, followed by detailed documentation and analysis of
the lithic remains. The diverse microlithic tools, including flakes, cores, microblades, blades, and debitage,
point to a sophisticated understanding of lithic technology. Most importantly, our findings strongly
suggest that Dantari was likely a production site with advanced microblade manufacturing techniques,
and there was a clear correlation between burial practices and tool production activities at the site.
Human Population Genetics and Genomics, 2025
The genetic origin of ethnic groups present in South Asia is complex. Widespread factors such as ... more The genetic origin of ethnic groups present in South Asia is complex. Widespread factors such as complex societal caste structure, language shifts, the coexistence of tribal alongside caste populations, and a varied and vast geography augment this complexity. In face of this complexity, a holistic approach is required for the study of population histories. The isolated Dravidian population, Brahui in Pakistan, represents a remnant of complex ethnolinguistic population history. Genetic studies conducted to date have not demonstrated a close genetic link between the Brahui and other Dravidian populations of the Indian subcontinent. However, none of these studies included the Kurukh-Malto populations, which are linguistically closest to the Brahui. In this study, we included the Kurukh speaking Oraon population and their neighbours in high-resolution genetic analyses to investigate their allele and haplotype sharing with the Brahui population of Pakistan. Our intrapopulation analyses on Oraon collected from Bangladesh and India suggested a a common South Asian source for the Oraon that is genetically distinct from the extent of Indian Mundari (Austroasiatic) populations. The interpopulation comparison of Oraon showed a closer genetic affinity with the geographically more distant Mawasi (North Munda) and Gond (South Dravidian) populations, rather than their immediate neighbours. Moreover, our extensive statistical analyses found no signal of an Oraon-related ancestry inBrahui. One possible explanation to this finding is that thegenetic signature related to the Dravidian population might have been entirely lost in Brahui due toextensiveadmixture with neighboring populations.
Genome Biology and Evolution, 2025
The domestication of animals is a major milestone in human history and has been studied in variou... more The domestication of animals is a major milestone in human history and has been studied in various fields. Pig domestication, in particular, has been widely studied, and it is believed that India is one of at least six domestication centers. However, there is a lack of systematic studies using high-resolution genetic markers, including complete mitogenomes, to investigate the domestication and genetic roots of pigs in India. In the present study, we investigated the origin and evolution of Indian pigs using mitochondrial genetic data to complement archaeological datasets. The phylogenetic status of Indian pig breeds was determined by analyzing all available mitochondrial data, incorporating a global dataset of 239 mitogenomes. The Bayesian and maximum likelihood tree analyses unveiled at least eight haplogroups diverging from three main branches, two of which are geographically restricted to India. We propose that the North Indian domestic haplogroup might represent an independent in-situ domestication event in North India, probably dating before ∼5,000 YBP. An additional North East Indian domestic haplogroup is nested within a widespread Asian clade that also includes Indian mitogenomes from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands that diverged more recently from distinct East and Southeast Asian roots. In conclusion, we propose that North Indian farmers could have been responsible for the independent domestication of local wild boars giving rise to the current domestic lineage identified in North India. At least one additional domestic lineage arrived in India more recently and remained mainly localized in the northeast. Domestic mitogenomes from the Indian islands show a notable connection with pig populations from Vietnam, and their arrival might be related to Austroasiatic-speaking human populations. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of pig domestication in India.
Rock Art Research, 2025
This article reviews the background and nomenclature of a specific type of graphic phenomenology ... more This article reviews the background and nomenclature of a specific type of graphic phenomenology currently known as geoglyphs. The properties of these materials, especially their technological variation, are examined here based on examples mainly from Peru and India. The record of the mechanical pressure technique to produce geoglyphs stands out, as it is documented at different archaeological sites, from which it is inferred that this technique had wide use in the past, especially in the Andes. It is concluded that the phenomenological definition of the geoglyphs is substantial in determining the nature of this type of archaeological evidence, with implications for its conservation, treatment and interpretation.
Ancient Asia, 2025
Neelam Singh and Sachin Kumar Tiwary
Rock art is an expression of human behaviour in a symbolic ... more Neelam Singh and Sachin Kumar Tiwary
Rock art is an expression of human behaviour in a symbolic way. It
is an assemblage of signs and symbols which are not easy to explain as they appear. Some of the symbols are very common worldwide like the symbols of procreation or fertility. These are present in art from palaeolithic art to modern art. Present research paper is a small attempt to highlight and decode these depictions like pregnancy, child birth and other scenes and symbols related to the theme in light of human’s biological, social and cultural behaviour. All kind of behaviour which are liable to bring individuals together, comes under social behaviour. Social behaviour is interaction of people to make the survival easy, it also includes cultural activities which can be seen as psychological support for survival. Reproduction is a part of human’s biological behaviour but it also builds social behaviour among people. Different steps of this process (reproduction) need social cooperation and psychological support which
creates the basic structure of the society. In the present paper, through the study of rock art we will try to find out how the social and cultural behaviour of people in the past managed the evolutionary or biological problems of reproduction.
Keywords: rock art, pregnancy, child birth, evolution, obstetrics dilemma,
human behaviour
Ancient Asia, 2024 (15): 199-222, 2024
Authors: Roopnarayan Bhaina, Pratik Pandey, Neelam Singh, Binayak Kr. Dubey, Sachin Kr. Tiwary
Th... more Authors: Roopnarayan Bhaina, Pratik Pandey, Neelam Singh, Binayak Kr. Dubey, Sachin Kr. Tiwary
The investigation of prehistoric lithic industries holds significant importance in comprehending human evolution and technological development. This research paper aims to understand the microlithic industry of the Anuppur region by conducting a comprehensive survey of recently explored sites of the prehistoric period. Our primary objectives revolve around providing a meticulous description of the tools collected during our exploration, Performing statistical analysis of the tool data employing SPSS software, elucidating the regional landscape, and discussing our findings in the context of prior research. Our ultimate goal behind doing this research is to contribute to a deeper knowledge of the microlithic industry of the Anupur region of Central India and its larger relevance within the context of human technological behaviour. Through the systematic analysis of recently explored sites, we could shed light on the intricate details of the microlithic industry, unravelling its complexities and offering valuable insights into the evolution of human societies in this region. By utilising robust statistical methods and exploring the regional landscape, we endeavour to create a comprehensive framework for understanding the multifaceted dimensions of the microlithic industry in Central India.
Mitochondrion journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/mito, 2024
The central region of India boasts a rich tribal heritage and the highest number of tribal popula... more The central region of India boasts a rich tribal heritage and the highest number of tribal populations in the country. Analysing the genetic history of this population can offer valuable insights into various demographic
processes that shaped the gene pool of present-day settlers of this region. In this study, we utilize a recently validated Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technique to sequence 24 tribal mitogenomes from the Chhattisgarh population for genetic ancestry and forensic analysis. The identified ancient haplogroups in this population can be traced back to the pre-Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) period. Our Bayesian analysis provides evidence for maternal ancestral expansion following the earliest Out-of-Africa migration, followed by a prolonged steady phase. We identified three basal founding haplogroups, M2, R5, and U2 in the Chhattisgarhregion that diversified during the Neolithic period. Indistinct distribution pattern of these haplogroups among tribes and castes suggests that the maternal ancestry of Chhattisgarh population predates any kind of social stratification that exists today in the Indian subcontinent. Furthermore, our analysis suggests that this region remained unaffected by the Last Glacial Maximum. The forensic analysis of the mitogenomes demonstrates a high power of discrimination (0.9256) within the Chhattisgarh population, thus supporting the applicability of mitogenome NGS technology in forensic contexts.
SAARC Art (7) December , 2024
Art has been a central mode of Art Expressions through Rock
communication throughout human evolu... more Art has been a central mode of Art Expressions through Rock
communication throughout human evolution. Art is the most
interesting manifestation of human behaviour and conscience.
The paper focuses on art and its various ways of expressions,
highlighting how art has been a central mode of communication
throughout human evolution. Since ancient times, humans
have used art as a means to convey emotions, beliefs, and
social values, evolving with technological advancements
that expanded human cognition and creativity. One of the oldest
forms of such communication is rock art. The primitive humans
drew various thematic scenes, symbols etc to express their
thoughts. Similarly, tattooing is another form of art continued
through ancient times. Tattoos served as more than decoration - these are traditional markers of identity, a way for individuals to communicate their heritage and societal role. Interestingly, the symbols found in rock paintings across various regions closely resemble the motifs tattooed on
the body, reflecting a cultural continuity between the ancient rock art and the tattoo culture in these regions. Like in the Kaimur plateau, motifs of flowers, peacocks, etc. are found on different body parts which closely
resemble the designs in the Kaimur rock paintings.
Research Square (Research Square), May 30, 2024
This study investigates the possible ancient colour extraction methods by analysing a sample from... more This study investigates the possible ancient colour extraction methods by analysing a sample from the Adhaura block rock shelters in Bihar's Kaimur Range. The sample was collected based on the assumption of being Haematite. To state factual evidence, it was then analysed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-rays (EDX) for a detailed study of its morphology and composition and wavelength dispersive X-ray uorescence (WDXRF) to determine the elemental composition and presence of trace elements in the bulk rock. The results provide a new perspective on rock art colour schemes and enable a basic understanding of the geological nature of the landform. The sample analysis indicates that locally sourced materials, including a geological lateritic formation containing Haematite and Goethite in distinct phases, were used instead of the commonly used Haematite. This study bridges the need for scienti c analysis in understanding the material and techniques in archaeology and anthropology. The results of these analyses provided a novel geological perspective for understanding rock art colour schemes and enabled a basic theoretical understanding of the rock art site and the geochemical nature of the landform. It also is an ensemble of technological investigations and natural science that helped achieve the results.
The current research is based on the study of festivals, importance of animal worship, floor art ... more The current research is based on the study of festivals, importance of animal worship, floor art activities perform by the inhabitants of mainly Bihar. The methodology followed for this study is based on field work taken in various part of Bihar. Simultaneously author studied and gives a conclusion after the compared study of early art and present art in the form of paintings on wall, floor and animal body, relief, engravings on mud wall etc. After the field work and compartment author collected the data from the few but important published texts. This is an attempt to think about the decoding of rock art by way of tradition present art work usually done during ritual like death, marriage and festivals on different occasion throughout the year. The present work almost tries to redefines the concept of origin and purpose of rock art. It offers an extensive and all-inclusive classification of the rock art without hesitating to coin new terms for certain classes that were hitherto accommodated under groups which they were not conveniently belonging to on the basis of features and typology. Further, the contemporary lifestyles of the native habitants have been deeply observed for the first time revealing connectivity of the early art with the tradition art leading us to the belief that the social moorings of the present society extend to that by gone era.
Research Square (Research Square), May 19, 2023
The central region of India is incredibly rich in tribal heritage. It is the most frequent Indian... more The central region of India is incredibly rich in tribal heritage. It is the most frequent Indian state in terms of tribal population. Understanding the genetic history of the tribal population of India may add detailed information about various demographic processes, including social upliftment. However, to understand these microevolutionary processes, high-resolution genetic analysis is warranted. Therefore, we have used cuttingedge Next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques and sequenced the mitogenomes of 25 random samples from two major (Gond and Kanwar) tribal populations for complete mitogenome analysis. We aimed to understand the initial peopling of Chhattisgarh from a maternal perspective. The complete genome sequencing enabled us to identify several novel sub-haplogroups. Our results suggested an early expansion and proliferation of maternal ancestry rooted in the time of initial settlement of the subcontinent, which has reached near saturation during 25-30Kya. At the background of founding lineages M and N, we identi ed maternal haplogroups M2, R5 and U2 as three basal founding haplogroups of this region. Overall, we suggest a high effective (Ne) maternal population in Central India during 25Kya, sustained during the Last Glacial Maximus(LGM).
ICON: Journal of Archaeology and Culture, 2019
It is based on the meticulous documentation of mason mark on the religious architecture.
Virtual Archaeology Review, May 20, 2013
The present paper deals with result obtained from recently conducted archaeological investigation... more The present paper deals with result obtained from recently conducted archaeological investigations in Kakanaya hill and Nagauri hill. The paper is a report of the archaeological exploration and scientific documentation of the Kakanaya hill and Nagauri hill. This study aims at presenting holistic understanding of the origin and development of the artistic activities in the region and to give the general information about the archaeological sites in the study area. The documented man activities will also discussed in detail. The present paper based on new interpretation regarding its importance for the development of Buddhist architecture and its cotemporary technique.
Zhongguo Biaozhunhua, 2017
Ancient Asia, 2021
The present work engages with a comparative study of the Oraon Folklore and their Rock Art for as... more The present work engages with a comparative study of the Oraon Folklore and their Rock Art for assessing how both these genres seemingly record the geo-cultural history of Oraon origin, their forced migrations and their current state of habitations in another Indian state Jharkhand. It attempts to establish a relation between archaeological data available in the form of rock art supplemented by written accounts and local traditions wherever possible. Based on field works, personal interactions with local inhabitants, especially on important events like, marriage, festivals, rituals etc., and archeological scrutiny of rock art available in the Oraons' previous habitation, i.e., the Kaimur Region in current Indian state of Bihar, the paper attempts to expose the historical value and cultural parallelism of Oraons' folk narratives and rock art. The paper strongly believes that both these genres conspicuously display the cultural history of a marginalized tribe that has undergone several historical and cultural ordeals. Besides this, the paper also offers, for the first time, an English translation of Oraons' oral folklore, adhering to the interdisciplinary approach of this paper. However, most significantly, the paper in its attempt to trace the continuity of rock art in this Kaimur Region also becomes an addition to the domain of ethno-rock art studies.
Virtual Archaeology Review, May 20, 2013
The present paper deals with result obtained from recently conducted archaeological investigation... more The present paper deals with result obtained from recently conducted archaeological investigations in Kakanaya hill and Nagauri hill. The paper is a report of the archaeological exploration and scientific documentation of the Kakanaya hill and Nagauri hill. This study aims at presenting holistic understanding of the origin and development of the artistic activities in the region and to give the general information about the archaeological sites in the study area. The documented man activities will also discussed in detail. The present paper based on new interpretation regarding its importance for the development of Buddhist architecture and its cotemporary technique.
Zhongguo Biaozhunhua, 2017
Ancient Asia, 2021
The present work engages with a comparative study of the Oraon Folklore and their Rock Art for as... more The present work engages with a comparative study of the Oraon Folklore and their Rock Art for assessing how both these genres seemingly record the geo-cultural history of Oraon origin, their forced migrations and their current state of habitations in another Indian state Jharkhand. It attempts to establish a relation between archaeological data available in the form of rock art supplemented by written accounts and local traditions wherever possible. Based on field works, personal interactions with local inhabitants, especially on important events like, marriage, festivals, rituals etc., and archeological scrutiny of rock art available in the Oraons' previous habitation, i.e., the Kaimur Region in current Indian state of Bihar, the paper attempts to expose the historical value and cultural parallelism of Oraons' folk narratives and rock art. The paper strongly believes that both these genres conspicuously display the cultural history of a marginalized tribe that has undergone several historical and cultural ordeals. Besides this, the paper also offers, for the first time, an English translation of Oraons' oral folklore, adhering to the interdisciplinary approach of this paper. However, most significantly, the paper in its attempt to trace the continuity of rock art in this Kaimur Region also becomes an addition to the domain of ethno-rock art studies.
383 AbstrAct Symbols are the medium of expressing ideas telescopically and they can be communicat... more 383 AbstrAct Symbols are the medium of expressing ideas telescopically and they can be communicated to others without articulate words or language. They are predominantly preponderant in a literate or semi-literate society. It is a universally accepted fact that every symbol has its own identity. Often it is understood by contemporary society in enigmatic ways. Following the contribution of postmodernist and post-processual ideas, each individual interpretation should be rightfully comprehended. In the rock art context we come across many symbols which have not been unidentified. Among numerous signs specifically the cross in circle interestingly signifies the importance of symbols in past society. The present paper attempts to decode the meaning of the symbol of the cross in circle, also described as a plus in a circle, wheel cross, sun cross, kutsuwa-mon, cardinal cross, consecration cross, Woden’s cross/Odin’s cross, sun disc, sacred hoop or loop, sacred ring, sacred circle fille...
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Papers by Sachin Kumar Tiwary
research explores its rich cultural heritage, including microlithic tools, painted rock shelters, megalithic
burials, and historical inscriptions. The study investigates the rock art's significance, symbolism, and
cultural context, starting with an overview of Dantari Hill's geography, water resources, and
archaeological finds. The painted rock shelters are examined for their artistic and symbolic content, with
detailed micro-documentation of the pictographs. The paper traces the site's chronology from the
Mesolithic period through the Iron Age and historical periods into the early medieval era, analysing
microlithic tools, rock art, megalithic structures, inscriptions and ceramics. The findings suggest Dantari
Hill's strategic location, natural resources, and spiritual significance made it a vital site for human
settlement and cultural activities over millennia. This research underscores Dantari Hill's cultural and
historical importance, highlighting the need for further exploration and preservation to uncover deeper
insights into ancient civilisations and cultural heritage.
megalithic site of Dantari in Mirzapur District, India. The microlithic technology, which can be traced
back to the late Pleistocene in the Indian subcontinent, demonstrates a remarkable continuity and
advancement up to the Iron Age, spanning a significant period of human history. Based on the analysis of
605 systematically collected artefacts and 250 randomly gathered artefacts from Dantari, our research
unveils using crypto-crystalline siliceous raw materials, primarily chert, for tool production. The site's
significant technological flexibility and behavioural modernity of its ancient inhabitants are evident. We
employed a systematic grid-based collection method, followed by detailed documentation and analysis of
the lithic remains. The diverse microlithic tools, including flakes, cores, microblades, blades, and debitage,
point to a sophisticated understanding of lithic technology. Most importantly, our findings strongly
suggest that Dantari was likely a production site with advanced microblade manufacturing techniques,
and there was a clear correlation between burial practices and tool production activities at the site.
Rock art is an expression of human behaviour in a symbolic way. It
is an assemblage of signs and symbols which are not easy to explain as they appear. Some of the symbols are very common worldwide like the symbols of procreation or fertility. These are present in art from palaeolithic art to modern art. Present research paper is a small attempt to highlight and decode these depictions like pregnancy, child birth and other scenes and symbols related to the theme in light of human’s biological, social and cultural behaviour. All kind of behaviour which are liable to bring individuals together, comes under social behaviour. Social behaviour is interaction of people to make the survival easy, it also includes cultural activities which can be seen as psychological support for survival. Reproduction is a part of human’s biological behaviour but it also builds social behaviour among people. Different steps of this process (reproduction) need social cooperation and psychological support which
creates the basic structure of the society. In the present paper, through the study of rock art we will try to find out how the social and cultural behaviour of people in the past managed the evolutionary or biological problems of reproduction.
Keywords: rock art, pregnancy, child birth, evolution, obstetrics dilemma,
human behaviour
The investigation of prehistoric lithic industries holds significant importance in comprehending human evolution and technological development. This research paper aims to understand the microlithic industry of the Anuppur region by conducting a comprehensive survey of recently explored sites of the prehistoric period. Our primary objectives revolve around providing a meticulous description of the tools collected during our exploration, Performing statistical analysis of the tool data employing SPSS software, elucidating the regional landscape, and discussing our findings in the context of prior research. Our ultimate goal behind doing this research is to contribute to a deeper knowledge of the microlithic industry of the Anupur region of Central India and its larger relevance within the context of human technological behaviour. Through the systematic analysis of recently explored sites, we could shed light on the intricate details of the microlithic industry, unravelling its complexities and offering valuable insights into the evolution of human societies in this region. By utilising robust statistical methods and exploring the regional landscape, we endeavour to create a comprehensive framework for understanding the multifaceted dimensions of the microlithic industry in Central India.
processes that shaped the gene pool of present-day settlers of this region. In this study, we utilize a recently validated Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technique to sequence 24 tribal mitogenomes from the Chhattisgarh population for genetic ancestry and forensic analysis. The identified ancient haplogroups in this population can be traced back to the pre-Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) period. Our Bayesian analysis provides evidence for maternal ancestral expansion following the earliest Out-of-Africa migration, followed by a prolonged steady phase. We identified three basal founding haplogroups, M2, R5, and U2 in the Chhattisgarhregion that diversified during the Neolithic period. Indistinct distribution pattern of these haplogroups among tribes and castes suggests that the maternal ancestry of Chhattisgarh population predates any kind of social stratification that exists today in the Indian subcontinent. Furthermore, our analysis suggests that this region remained unaffected by the Last Glacial Maximum. The forensic analysis of the mitogenomes demonstrates a high power of discrimination (0.9256) within the Chhattisgarh population, thus supporting the applicability of mitogenome NGS technology in forensic contexts.
communication throughout human evolution. Art is the most
interesting manifestation of human behaviour and conscience.
The paper focuses on art and its various ways of expressions,
highlighting how art has been a central mode of communication
throughout human evolution. Since ancient times, humans
have used art as a means to convey emotions, beliefs, and
social values, evolving with technological advancements
that expanded human cognition and creativity. One of the oldest
forms of such communication is rock art. The primitive humans
drew various thematic scenes, symbols etc to express their
thoughts. Similarly, tattooing is another form of art continued
through ancient times. Tattoos served as more than decoration - these are traditional markers of identity, a way for individuals to communicate their heritage and societal role. Interestingly, the symbols found in rock paintings across various regions closely resemble the motifs tattooed on
the body, reflecting a cultural continuity between the ancient rock art and the tattoo culture in these regions. Like in the Kaimur plateau, motifs of flowers, peacocks, etc. are found on different body parts which closely
resemble the designs in the Kaimur rock paintings.
research explores its rich cultural heritage, including microlithic tools, painted rock shelters, megalithic
burials, and historical inscriptions. The study investigates the rock art's significance, symbolism, and
cultural context, starting with an overview of Dantari Hill's geography, water resources, and
archaeological finds. The painted rock shelters are examined for their artistic and symbolic content, with
detailed micro-documentation of the pictographs. The paper traces the site's chronology from the
Mesolithic period through the Iron Age and historical periods into the early medieval era, analysing
microlithic tools, rock art, megalithic structures, inscriptions and ceramics. The findings suggest Dantari
Hill's strategic location, natural resources, and spiritual significance made it a vital site for human
settlement and cultural activities over millennia. This research underscores Dantari Hill's cultural and
historical importance, highlighting the need for further exploration and preservation to uncover deeper
insights into ancient civilisations and cultural heritage.
megalithic site of Dantari in Mirzapur District, India. The microlithic technology, which can be traced
back to the late Pleistocene in the Indian subcontinent, demonstrates a remarkable continuity and
advancement up to the Iron Age, spanning a significant period of human history. Based on the analysis of
605 systematically collected artefacts and 250 randomly gathered artefacts from Dantari, our research
unveils using crypto-crystalline siliceous raw materials, primarily chert, for tool production. The site's
significant technological flexibility and behavioural modernity of its ancient inhabitants are evident. We
employed a systematic grid-based collection method, followed by detailed documentation and analysis of
the lithic remains. The diverse microlithic tools, including flakes, cores, microblades, blades, and debitage,
point to a sophisticated understanding of lithic technology. Most importantly, our findings strongly
suggest that Dantari was likely a production site with advanced microblade manufacturing techniques,
and there was a clear correlation between burial practices and tool production activities at the site.
Rock art is an expression of human behaviour in a symbolic way. It
is an assemblage of signs and symbols which are not easy to explain as they appear. Some of the symbols are very common worldwide like the symbols of procreation or fertility. These are present in art from palaeolithic art to modern art. Present research paper is a small attempt to highlight and decode these depictions like pregnancy, child birth and other scenes and symbols related to the theme in light of human’s biological, social and cultural behaviour. All kind of behaviour which are liable to bring individuals together, comes under social behaviour. Social behaviour is interaction of people to make the survival easy, it also includes cultural activities which can be seen as psychological support for survival. Reproduction is a part of human’s biological behaviour but it also builds social behaviour among people. Different steps of this process (reproduction) need social cooperation and psychological support which
creates the basic structure of the society. In the present paper, through the study of rock art we will try to find out how the social and cultural behaviour of people in the past managed the evolutionary or biological problems of reproduction.
Keywords: rock art, pregnancy, child birth, evolution, obstetrics dilemma,
human behaviour
The investigation of prehistoric lithic industries holds significant importance in comprehending human evolution and technological development. This research paper aims to understand the microlithic industry of the Anuppur region by conducting a comprehensive survey of recently explored sites of the prehistoric period. Our primary objectives revolve around providing a meticulous description of the tools collected during our exploration, Performing statistical analysis of the tool data employing SPSS software, elucidating the regional landscape, and discussing our findings in the context of prior research. Our ultimate goal behind doing this research is to contribute to a deeper knowledge of the microlithic industry of the Anupur region of Central India and its larger relevance within the context of human technological behaviour. Through the systematic analysis of recently explored sites, we could shed light on the intricate details of the microlithic industry, unravelling its complexities and offering valuable insights into the evolution of human societies in this region. By utilising robust statistical methods and exploring the regional landscape, we endeavour to create a comprehensive framework for understanding the multifaceted dimensions of the microlithic industry in Central India.
processes that shaped the gene pool of present-day settlers of this region. In this study, we utilize a recently validated Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technique to sequence 24 tribal mitogenomes from the Chhattisgarh population for genetic ancestry and forensic analysis. The identified ancient haplogroups in this population can be traced back to the pre-Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) period. Our Bayesian analysis provides evidence for maternal ancestral expansion following the earliest Out-of-Africa migration, followed by a prolonged steady phase. We identified three basal founding haplogroups, M2, R5, and U2 in the Chhattisgarhregion that diversified during the Neolithic period. Indistinct distribution pattern of these haplogroups among tribes and castes suggests that the maternal ancestry of Chhattisgarh population predates any kind of social stratification that exists today in the Indian subcontinent. Furthermore, our analysis suggests that this region remained unaffected by the Last Glacial Maximum. The forensic analysis of the mitogenomes demonstrates a high power of discrimination (0.9256) within the Chhattisgarh population, thus supporting the applicability of mitogenome NGS technology in forensic contexts.
communication throughout human evolution. Art is the most
interesting manifestation of human behaviour and conscience.
The paper focuses on art and its various ways of expressions,
highlighting how art has been a central mode of communication
throughout human evolution. Since ancient times, humans
have used art as a means to convey emotions, beliefs, and
social values, evolving with technological advancements
that expanded human cognition and creativity. One of the oldest
forms of such communication is rock art. The primitive humans
drew various thematic scenes, symbols etc to express their
thoughts. Similarly, tattooing is another form of art continued
through ancient times. Tattoos served as more than decoration - these are traditional markers of identity, a way for individuals to communicate their heritage and societal role. Interestingly, the symbols found in rock paintings across various regions closely resemble the motifs tattooed on
the body, reflecting a cultural continuity between the ancient rock art and the tattoo culture in these regions. Like in the Kaimur plateau, motifs of flowers, peacocks, etc. are found on different body parts which closely
resemble the designs in the Kaimur rock paintings.
SUDAMERICANAS at XI TAAS, Huaraz-Perú, 2024 - Coordination Edwin de La Roca Silva, Tatiane de Souza and Antonio Perez. Not all authors are included due to email problems