Unearthing Bastar’s Ancient Civilization: A Glimpse into Human History 30,000 to 70,000 Years Ago
JAGDALPUR (Chhattisgarh), India: A groundbreaking discovery in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh is rewriting the known history of prehistoric human civilization. In the dense forests and rugged terrain of Bastar, a region well-known for its natural beauty and tribal culture in Chhattisgarh, India, an astonishing discovery has been made.
A team of dedicated researchers from the Regional Office of Anthropological Survey and the Anthropology Department of Shaheed Mahendra Karma University has unearthed evidence that points towards the existence of a prehistoric human civilization that thrived between 30,000 to 70,000 years ago. This groundbreaking revelation comes after five years of meticulous research and exploration across the expanse of Bastar, challenging the conventional understanding of human history in the region.
A New Chapter in Prehistoric Studies
The discovery in Bastar is not just a significant archaeological find; it is a historical milestone that adds a new chapter to the prehistoric period of human civilization known so far. The collection and analysis of stone age tools, weapons, and other artifacts have led experts to conclude the presence of an advanced human civilization, previously unknown, that once inhabited the remote areas of Bastar. “This discovery has proven that a human civilization existed in the unknown areas of Bastar 30 to 70 thousand years ago,” remarked Dr. Piyush Ranjan Sahu, Head of Office at the Anthropological Survey.
Methodical Exploration and Significant Findings
The journey to this monumental discovery began in Abujhmad and spanned across various significant locations in Bastar, including Bijapur, Sukma, Barsur, and Dantewada, closely following the major rivers that meander through these areas. The research team’s efforts led to the identification of over two dozen sites where stone age equipment, tools, and weapons were found in abundance. These findings were not just incidental; they were the result of a targeted and comprehensive search for evidence of early human life and activity.
The Science Behind the Discovery
To ascertain the age of these tools and artifacts, the researchers have employed carbon dating techniques. The instruments, once categorized, are being sent to various laboratories for detailed analysis. “The accurate estimation of their period will be determined through carbon dating,” explains the research team. This scientific approach not only validates the initial findings but also sets the stage for more in-depth research into the lifestyle, culture, and technological advancements of this ancient civilization.
Artifacts and Rock Paintings: Windows into the Past
Among the significant artifacts recovered are knives, shavings, piercing tools, arrowheads, and grinding stones, all indicative of a sophisticated tool-making technique. Additionally, rock paintings discovered in the hills near Keshkal offer a visual narrative of this ancient community. These paintings depict scenes of collective hunting, family life, and unique palm marks, providing a poignant glimpse into the daily lives and social structures of our prehistoric ancestors.
The Road Ahead: Uncovering More Secrets
As the research progresses, the anticipation grows for more revelations that will shed light on this ancient civilization’s way of life, beliefs, and contributions to human history. The findings in Bastar are just the beginning of what promises to be an exhilarating journey into our distant past, with the potential to rewrite history books and enrich our understanding of human evolution and civilization.
This discovery not only highlights the rich heritage of Bastar but also showcases the relentless spirit of exploration and inquiry that drives humanity to uncover its ancient roots. As further research unfolds, the world eagerly awaits more insights into this civilization that flourished thousands of years ago, promising to reveal even more shocking facts about our collective human history.
Dr. Sukrita Tirkey, assistant professor of anthropology at the university, who was part of this team, said that we have recovered knives, shavings, piercing tools, arrowheads, grinding stones from the main water source. Apart from this, rock paintings have been found in the hills near Keshkal. In these, collective hunting, family and palm marks are clearly visible. We have collected stone samples from many places in Bastar. After studying them and making categories, it has come to light that a human civilization developed here 30 to 70 thousand years ago. Carbon dating and more research will reveal more shocking facts. This will open a new chapter in the history of this place. – Dr. Piyush Ranjan Sahu, Head of Office, Anthropological Survey
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India CSR
