The correct option is Karnataka-Andhra region.
Explanation
Prehistoric rock art in India is broadly divided into three phases: Upper Palaeolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic-Chalcolithic. While the richest concentration of rock art is found in Central India (e.g., Bhimbetka), the granite rocks of South India, particularly in the Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh regions, host significant Neolithic rock art sites.
Site Analysis
The sites mentioned in the question are key locations for Neolithic rock paintings and petroglyphs (rock engravings) in South India:
- Kupgallu: Located in the Bellary district of Karnataka, this site is famous for its petroglyphs on dolerite dykes, depicting bulls, human figures, and scenes of daily life.
- Piklihal: Located in the Raichur district of Karnataka, this is an important Neolithic settlement site containing rock paintings and engravings.
- Tekkalkota: Located in the Bellary district of Karnataka, this site is known for evidence of Neolithic habitation and associated rock art.
These sites are geographically concentrated in the granite hill ranges of the Karnataka plateau, which shares a contiguous cultural and geographical landscape with the Andhra region. Therefore, they fall under the Karnataka-Andhra region.
Key Takeaway: The rock art of South India is predominantly associated with the Neolithic period and is concentrated in the granite formations of the Karnataka-Andhra region (specifically Bellary and Raichur districts).