Neolithic Culture in Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh: An Overview


Neolithic Culture in Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh: An Overview

Kadapa district is home to several Neolithic sites that provide critical insights into the early human settlement, lifestyle, and culture. These sites are significant for understanding the transition from hunting-gathering to agriculture and the domestication of animals.


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1. Neolithic Sites in Kadapa

Prominent Sites:

Hanumantaraopeta

Peddamudiyam

Balijapalle

Mylavaram

Chintakunta

Pulivendula

Vemula

Yellatur


Geographical Distribution:

Most Neolithic sites in Kadapa are located along riverbanks like the Penner and Kunderu rivers, near seasonal streams or on granite hilltops.




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2. Key Features of Neolithic Culture

Tools:

Ground stone axes, chisels, hammers, and sickles made from diorite, dolerite, and basalt.

Small blades and arrowheads made from chert for hunting and farming.


Pottery:

Handmade pottery, including painted red and polished ware.

Distinctive "Patpad Ware" found in the Kunderu valley.

Perforated bowls used for culinary purposes like curd straining and steam cooking.


Economy:

Depended on mixed subsistence practices including agriculture, hunting, fishing, and animal husbandry.

Domestication of cattle, goats, and sheep was prominent.




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3. Neolithic Art and Rock Engravings

Rock Paintings:

Found at Chintakunta, Banga Agraharam, and Dappalle.

Depictions include humped bulls, human figures, geometric patterns, and scenes of daily life.

Paintings are mostly in red, indicating religious or cultural symbolism.


Petroglyphs:

Carvings and cup marks found on sandstone rock shelters.

Often associated with Mesolithic and Megalithic sites.




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4. Archaeological Discoveries

Excavations:

Small test excavations have been carried out at Hanumantaraopeta, Peddamudiyam, and Balijapalle.

Findings include pottery, animal bone tools, and stone artifacts.


Chronology:

Radiocarbon dating suggests that some Neolithic sites in Kadapa date back to 1800–1000 BCE.

Artifacts like painted pottery indicate links to the broader Peninsular Jorwe culture.




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5. Ethno-Archaeological Insights

The lifestyle of contemporary pastoral communities like the Gollas and Kurubas provides a glimpse into the subsistence patterns and cultural practices of Neolithic people in Kadapa. These communities continue to practice animal husbandry and agriculture, similar to their Neolithic ancestors.



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6. Significance

Kadapa's Neolithic sites are a treasure trove of information about early human life, showcasing their technological advancements, artistic expressions, and socio-economic structures. They bridge the gap between prehistory and history, offering a glimpse into the lives of the first farmers and herders in the region.

For further exploration, visiting these sites and museums in the region can provide a hands-on understanding of this rich cultural heritage.


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The unexplored relics of Rayalaseema

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