Significant Archaeological Discoveries in Tekkalakote
A research team from Hartwick College in the United States has made remarkable discoveries in Tekkalakote, located in Ballari district. They found a nearly intact human burial site and several artefacts that date back to the Neolithic and later periods.
The excavations took place near Gowdra Moole hill, at the southwestern edge of Tekkalakote. Leading the team was Namita S Sugandhi, an associate professor of anthropology, along with experts like Dr. Yashaswini Jayadevayya from the Indian Institute of Technology in Kanpur and local scholar V Ashok Abkari.
Sugandhi describes Tekkalakote as a unique archaeological location, stating, “It contains evidence from the Stone Age, Neolithic, and early metal age, allowing us to explore nearly 5,000 years of human history in one area.” The team has uncovered pottery shards, stone tools, and other items indicative of early human life, particularly from the Neolithic and early Iron Age.
One of the most intriguing finds was a nearly complete human skeleton measuring approximately 5.5 feet. Sugandhi explained that the burial method was distinctive, with stones placed over the body as part of the ceremony, offering insights into ancient burial practices.
The latest excavation work spanned about a month and involved three specialized teams conducting surveys at various spots. The historical significance of Tekkalakote is profound, with initial discoveries in 1963 by MS Nagaraja Rao and further excavation in 1964 under HD Sankalya.
Sugandhi has been involved in multiple excavations in the region since 2005 and believes that the Southern Neolithic culture at Tekkalakote existed between 3000-1200 BCE. The team also found various beads and large clay pots that could have played a role in burial rituals, featuring intricate designs and nail-like impressions.
Additionally, Susan Kirkpatrick Smith, a bioarchaeologist from Kennesaw State University in the United States, is collaborating on preserving the skeleton and conducting studies to determine its age. Although many pottery pieces are damaged, efforts are being made to restore them for in-depth analysis.
Local officials remarked that these findings could promote Tekkalakote as an attractive spot for historical and archaeological tourism. The area also contains significant medieval remains that require further exploration, according to Sugandhi.
