The correct option is B.
Explanation
The discovery of the Bhimbetka rock shelters represents a significant milestone in Indian prehistoric archaeology, establishing the existence of Paleolithic and Mesolithic human habitation and artistic expression in the Vindhya Range of Madhya Pradesh.
- Option A: Robert Bruce Foote – Incorrect. He is known as the "Father of Indian Prehistory" for discovering the first Paleolithic tool (a hand-axe) at Pallavaram near Madras in 1863, but he was not involved in the discovery of Bhimbetka.
- Option B: V.S. Wakankar – Correct. Dr. Vishnu Shridhar Wakankar, an eminent Indian archaeologist, accidentally discovered the Bhimbetka caves in 1957-58 while traveling by train to Itarsi. He noticed the unique rock formations and subsequently led excavations that revealed one of the largest repositories of prehistoric rock art in the world.
- Option C: Alexander Cunningham – Incorrect. He was the first Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and is primarily associated with the discovery and excavation of Buddhist sites like Sanchi and Bharhut during the 19th century.
- Option D: John Marshall – Incorrect. As the Director-General of the ASI in the early 20th century, he is best known for overseeing the excavations of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro, which brought the Indus Valley Civilization to light.
Key Takeaway: The Bhimbetka rock shelters, a UNESCO World Heritage site, were discovered by V.S. Wakankar in 1957-58, marking a critical advancement in the study of India's Mesolithic and Paleolithic rock art.