BHOPAL: It is a jungle enthusiast’s haven, a treasure trove of rich and diverse wildlife, but not many know that Ratapani jungles near Bhopal are also home to some of the oldest and unique rock art.
And this magnificent heritage is now being unveiled at a rock trail being organised by department of culture, and tourism, Madhya Pradesh, on Sunday, December 26. Entry is free and only first 25 volunteers can participate.
The trail is being organised as a pre-cursor to World Tourism Day, said principal secretary, culture and tourism, Sheo Shekhar Shukla. “MP is blessed with some of the rarest, oldest rock art galleries which are still preserved. And Ran Bhaisa Chittauri in Ratapani is Bhopal’s best kept secret, which has one of the largest single rock paintings.
The event would allow the enthusiasts of rock art to enjoy this natural and anthropological splendour along with experts who would accompany the first 25 people who join the trail. It is just a beginning; we are now set to introduce the world to MP’s amazing rock art shelters which are centuries old,” he added.
Located near Dahod Dam, the Ran Bhaisa Chittauri rock art gallery has several paintings, which belong to mesolithic as well as neolithic age, informed well-known archaeologist, Dr Menakshi Duby Pathak. “The largest painting here is over 5000 years old although it is super-imposed while many other paintings there are 8000-10000 years old.
But my advice is to protect these art wonders adequately, so that they are not ruined by careless handling. Nobody should be allowed to touch them, because these rare gems are very fragile and they can get ruined in a moment,” said Dr Pathak.
Officials of tourism and culture department are going all out to ensure that the art remains protected while working for the success of the trail.
“The group would meet at Dahod dam and taken to the rock shelters. Refreshments will also be provided to the participants. The Experts would caution the group beforehand, lest they try to touch anything,” said a senior official.
