Prehistoric Burial Sites Discovered in Mulugu District
Hyderabad: The heritage department said it has identified many prehistoric burial sites at Motlagudem in Mulugu district, noting the existence of early human settlements in the Godavari river basin. Located about 120 km from Warangal, the tomb structures are locally known as Rakasi Bandalu and Rakasi Guhalu.
These ancient sites are believed to date back to the Stone Age and provide insights into the lifestyle, customs and social structures of early humans. Acting in line with the information received from the local people, the technical team Prof. Arjun Rao along with Dr P. Nagaraju and A. Raju visited the site on the instructions of special chief secretary Jayesh Ranjan.
Authorities said that stone slabs were removed for construction and many areas were damaged over time by troughs used for livestock. Many areas have now turned into forest slopes. Hundreds of such burial sites have been identified in Eturnagaram district, including villages in Damaravai, Tadvai and Mangapet mandals.
Large dolmen tomb structures made of sandstone slabs were found at Kappalayi Gutta, spread over an area of approximately 100 acres. Each structure consists of four vertical stones covered with a heavy capstone weighing up to 20 tons, demonstrating high-level craftsmanship. Experts said the structures reflect beliefs about life after death, similar to funeral rites seen in South India.
