This is India’s richest collection of prehistoric cave paintings, discovered in 1957 within the rock shelters of Bhimbetka in the foothills of the ancient Northern Vindhya range.
Over 600 rock shelters rising out of dense jungles —the largest group in the world—harbour paintings that date back to the Early Stone Age from the Mesolithic Period to the historical period. This marvellous ancient art, found in about 500 caves, depicts hunting, dancing, music, horse and elephant riders, animals, honey collection, decoration of bodies, disguises, household scenes, and religious and ritual symbols.
Amazingly, the cultural traditions, scenes and art forms depicted in these paintings can still be found alive and thriving among the inhabitants of nearby villages.
