ONE-DAY SEMINAR ON THE TOPIC : ROCK ART AND ARCHAEOLOGY OF INDIA
Date – 10th July, 2025.
Timing – From 10:00 AM onwards.
Platform – Bihar Museum.
Coordinators – Dr. Pratibha Singh & Mr. Satyam Kumar.
The students of Semester III of the Department of History, Patna Women’s College (Autonomous), Patna University, attended a one-day seminar organised at the Bihar Museum, Patna City. The event was coordinated by Dr. Pratibha Singh, Assistant Professor, Department of History and Dr. Satyam , under the guidance of Dr. Sister Celine Crasta, Head, Department of History. The seminar was conducted by the core team of Bihar Museum, under the supervision of Ms. Rachna Patil, I.A.S., Director, Directorate of Archaeology, Department of Art, Culture and Youth, Bihar.
The session commenced with a warm welcome extended to the students and faculty by a core member of the museum. Ms. Soni Singh introduced the theme of the seminar and welcomed the distinguished dignitaries: Shri Anjani Kumar Singh, Director General, and the Chief Guest, Shri Pranav Kumar, I.A.S., Secretary, Department of Art, Culture and Youth, Bihar.
Ms. Rachna Patil, I.A.S., set the tone with an insightful presentation on the phases of rock art and the development of archaeology in India. She highlighted the vital role played by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and its significant impact on Bihar’s archaeological landscape.
Shri Anjani Kumar Singh followed with an engaging discussion on the rock art of Kaimur and Rajgir, focusing on the natural pigments used in these prehistoric artworks and their continued relevance in contemporary tribal practices.
Dr. V. H. Sonawane, retired Professor of Archaeology, delivered a visually rich presentation titled “Glimpses of Indian Rock Art.” He showcased fascinating artefacts such as quartz crystals from Singhi Talav (Rajasthan), engravings from Dharki Chattan (Madhya Pradesh), geometric patterns from Shamala Hills (Bhopal), an engraved ostrich eggshell from Patne (Maharashtra), and a bone harpoon from the Belan Valley (Uttar Pradesh), revealing the diverse creativity of India’s prehistoric peoples.
Professor Banshi Lal Malla offered deep insights into the origins of Indian art and cultural consciousness. His PowerPoint presentation covered themes such as God – The Supreme Artist, Indian Art as a Mirror of Nature, Pithora and Warli paintings, Saora art of Odisha, and cosmic symbolism in Indian tradition.
Dr. S. B. Ota’s session titled “The Earliest Inhabitants of Ladakh and Their Artistic Creativity” traced the contributions of early Western scholars and institutions like the Geological Survey of India. He introduced archaeological concepts like petroglyphs, battering patterns, and patina, and explored discoveries from the Sasoma region.
The final presentation by Dr. Richa Negi connected ancient rock art with ethno-archaeology, emphasizing the continuity of cultural expressions from the past to the present.
The seminar concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Mrs. Kehkasha, who expressed deep appreciation to all dignitaries, speakers, faculty, and students. The seminar was marked by enthusiastic student participation, with many asking thoughtful and reflective questions.
This enriching academic experience not only deepened students’ understanding of archaeology and Indian rock art but also fostered an appreciation for the country’s cultural and artistic legacy. The department looks forward to organizing more such inspiring events that blend education with meaningful engagement.
