Stone to Sustenance: Bridging Archaeological Research and Public Understanding of Grinding Stone Technology

Sutonuka Bhattacharya1*, Kumar Akhilesh1, Prachi Joshi1, and Shanti Pappu1,2

This paper explores innovative approaches to communicating grinding stone technology through integrated ethnographic, experimental and archaeological research combined with public outreach initiatives. Investigating reduction sequences of grinding stones from South Indian Neolithic sites, examining raw material procurement, manufacturing, use-wear, and discard patterns. Science communication necessarily begins with research into the subject matter. Our research in the field of both archaeological and ethnographic grinding stones, highlights aspects related to both manufacturing sequences, typological variability and diverse functionality. We translate complex archaeological research into accessible educational content through multiple platforms: a documentary film, hands-on workshops for children introducing Neolithic lifeways and technology, and customised workbooks distributed to schools and colleges. This multi-modal approach demonstrates how traditional artefact- based research integrated with digital media and activity-based learning could convey prehistoric technological knowledge across diverse audiences. Combining these insights, we create immersive educational experiences that highlight the grinding stones' significance in knowledge transmission, cooperation, and community engagement.