Hire Benkal, a Megalithic site has been included in the tentative list...
- Recent context: Six sites submitted by the Archaeological Survey of India had been accepted by UNESCO for inclusion in the tentative list, which is a requirement before the final nomination of any site.
- Iconic riverfront of the historic city of Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)
- Temples of Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu)
- Megalithic site of Hire Benkal (Karnataka)
- BhedaghatLametaghat in Narmada Valley (Madhya Pradesh)
- Satpura Tiger Reserve (Madhya Pradesh)
- Maratha Military Architecture in Maharashtra
- A World Heritage Site is a location with an “outstanding universal value”. This signifies “cultural and/or natural significance which is exceptional as to transcend national boundaries and to be of common importance for present and future generations of all humanity”.
- These sites are nominated by UNESCO as embodied in an international treaty called the ‘Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage adopted in 1972.
- Megalithic site of Hire Benkal: The site of Hire Benkal consists of almost 1000 megalithic burial structures situated on a granite peak for more than 2500 years. Major architectural varieties found are dolmens, cairns, passage chambers, stone circles, menhirs, anthropomorphic figures carved from granite, etc
- Megalith is derived from two Greek words-‘megas’ meaning large and ‘lithos’ meaning stone. They are constructed either as burial sites or commemorative memorials.
- Another unique feature of Hire Benkal is prehistoric rock paintings. 11 rock shelters have been discovered with motifs like human figures, horse rider holding battle-axe, row of deers, bull with long horns, peacock, etc.
- The site provides an exceptional insight into the funerary and ritual practices of the Iron Age – Megalithic Culture of Indian Protohistory.
- In India, megaliths are seen in the Peninsular South, Deccan plateau, Vindhyas and North West region of the Indian subcontinent.
- Hence, option (b) is the correct answer.
Hire Benkal, a Megalithic site has been included in the tentative list...
Introduction
Hire Benkal is a significant Megalithic site located in Karnataka, India, which has recently been added to the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This recognition highlights its archaeological importance and the need for preservation.
Location and Significance
- State: Hire Benkal is situated in Karnataka.
- Archaeological Importance: The site dates back to the Iron Age and showcases an array of megalithic structures, including burial sites, stone circles, and dolmens.
- Cultural Heritage: It reflects the ancient burial practices and social customs of the communities that inhabited the region thousands of years ago.
Megalithic Structures
- Stone Circles: These are large circular arrangements of stones, believed to mark burial sites or ceremonial grounds.
- Dolmens: These are table-like structures made of large stones, serving as tombs and highlighting the architectural skills of the prehistoric societies.
- Artifacts: Numerous artifacts, including pottery and tools, have been uncovered, providing insights into the daily lives of the people.
UNESCO World Heritage Status
- Tentative List: Inclusion in the UNESCO tentative list is the first step toward obtaining full World Heritage status, which could lead to increased protection and funding for preservation efforts.
- Global Recognition: Once recognized, Hire Benkal can attract international attention, promoting tourism and education about the region's rich history.
Conclusion
The inclusion of Hire Benkal in the UNESCO tentative list emphasizes the need to protect and promote India's diverse archaeological heritage, particularly in Karnataka, where ancient civilizations thrived.
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