Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: TH
Context: The Rudragiri hillock in Andhra Pradesh features a unique combination of prehistoric rock paintings from the Mesolithic period and exquisite artwork from the Kakatiya dynasty, dating back to around 1300 AD.
- The site includes five naturally formed rock shelters that served as living quarters during the Mesolithic age, around 5000 B.C.
- The Kakatiya-era paintings display scenes from the epic Ramayana and are adorned with a variety of colours derived from white kaolin and different pigments.
One of the caves depicts a fierce battle between the Vanara brothers Vali and Sugriva, with Rama shooting arrows at Vali. Another cave features a grand sketch of Hanuman carrying the Sanjivani hill in his right hand, symbolizing his mission to save Lakshmana’s life.
About Kakatiya Dynasty:
- Kakatiyas is an Andhra dynasty that flourished in the 12th century CE. The Kakatiya dynasty ruled from Warangal (Telangana) from CE 1083-1323.
- They were known for the construction of a network of tanks for irrigation and drinking water and thereby gave a big boost to the overall development of the region.
- There are hundreds of Hindu temples built under the patronage of Kakatiya kings like Ganapati Deva, Rudrama Devi and Prataparudra in the Kakatiya dynasty. E.g.,
Thousand Pillar Temple or Rudreshwara Swamy Temple, Telangana. It is a star-shaped, triple shrine (Trikutalayam) dedicated to Vishnu, Shiva and Surya.
