Ancient Secrets Etched in Stone: New Megalithic Rock Art Unveiled in Kerala

Imagine stumbling upon something truly ancient, a direct message etched in stone from people who walked our land thousands of years ago. Well, that's precisely what's happened in the tranquil settings of Erikulam, Valiyapara, nestled in Kerala's Kannur district. It’s a find that has archaeologists buzzing, offering a tantalizing glimpse into a world long gone: the first-ever pictorial rock engravings from the Megalithic period to be identified in Kerala. What a moment!

These aren't just any old markings; we're talking about clearly identifiable figures – a cow and a deer, expertly carved onto a sloping granite boulder. The discovery was brought to light thanks to the diligent efforts of researcher P. J. Sebastian from Kannur, whose keen eye helped unearth this treasure. Later, renowned archaeologist Professor P. Rajendran, who used to teach at Kerala University, confirmed their significance and helped us understand their story.

Let's talk about the artwork itself, because it's quite remarkable. The cow figure, for instance, measures a respectable 25 cm in length, boasting distinctive humps and horns that really bring it to life. Right alongside it, a deer, about 20 cm long, captivates with its prominent antlers. What’s fascinating is how both animals are depicted in dynamic poses, almost as if caught mid-chase. You can almost feel the movement, the energy of these creatures from such a distant era. These weren't just idle doodles; they were purposeful, vivid representations.

What makes this particular find so incredibly important is its context. These engravings hail from the Megalithic period, an era generally spanning from roughly 1000 BCE to 500 CE. While Kerala has seen other rock art discoveries – think rock paintings in places like Marayoor and Perumkadavila, or the famous Edakkal Caves with their intricate engravings – these newly identified Valiyapara figures stand out. They are, to our knowledge, the very first pictorial rock engravings from the Megalithic period found within Kerala itself. That's a huge distinction, and it fundamentally reshapes our understanding of ancient artistic expression here.

So, what can these ancient drawings tell us? Well, a lot, actually. The presence of a cow might suggest early practices of animal domestication, hinting at pastoral communities thriving in the region. And the deer, caught in what seems like motion, could offer clues about hunting practices, local wildlife, and even the spiritual beliefs of these ancient inhabitants. They're more than just pictures; they're silent witnesses to daily life, culture, and the natural environment of our ancestors. It really makes you wonder about their lives, doesn't it?

Given the immense historical and cultural value of these carvings, there's a strong and urgent call for their immediate preservation and further academic study. These aren't merely stones; they are priceless fragments of our collective human heritage. Protecting sites like Valiyapara isn't just about saving old rocks; it's about safeguarding the stories, the artistry, and the profound connection to those who came before us, ensuring that future generations can also marvel at these whispers from the past.