Archaeologists and anthropology researchers here will trace prehistoric sites in the Sabarmati basin in an attempt to recreate the picture of the human being two to three lakh years ago in the region, now known as Gujarat. The project to be undertaken by M S University department of archaeology as a part of UGC's special assistance programme is a maiden attempt to excavate primary-sites (settlements) during the lower Palaeolithic age in Gujarat . In 1890, British archaeologist Robert Brucefoote had studied secondary sites in the region. The study, first of its kind, was commissioned by the then ruler of Baroda Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Brucefoote based his work on the artefacts and stone tools found in the exposed part of river Sabarmati and Orsang. Subsequent exploration along the Sabarmati riverbed and the work done by professor H D Sankalia threw more evidence of the activity of pre-historic men in Hadol, Valasana, Pedhamli and Virpur (all in Sabarkantha). Evidence was also found of pre-historic human activity (Acheulian sites) at Devisar (Bhuj), Halvad, Samadhiala, Umrethi and Rojdi. However, no further work was done to pinpoint the exact pockets where the pre-historic men lived and made hunting tools.

Said former head of MSU archaeology department V H Sonawane: Brucefoote did not explore the primary sites. We will now excavate the primary sites in the Sabarmati basin. Our aim would be to establish the exact spots where the pre-historic men lived and built their tools". Archaeological and anthropological evidence from the lower Palaeolithic age suggest that most settlements were in the current day north and central Gujarat . Saurashtra, it is believed was cut into an island while the Gulf of Khambhat and Gulf of Kutch met around the present day Nal Sarovar (formed in a depression). Similarly the Rann of Kutch was an extended arm of the sea.

View: Full Article | Source: The Times of India