Evolutionary Perspective on Narmada Hominin Fossils

Abstract

Understanding of human evolution in South Asia primarily rests on a solitary calvarium (partial skullcap) from Hathnora in the central Narmada valley, but its disputed taxonomic status has blurred the picture. Early explorations (1983-1992) led to the discovery of 2-clavicles and a 9th rib from Hathnora, but those were so tiny to fit with the calvarium, and fueled the debate whether the calvarium is of a dwarf or a pygmy. Further explorations conducted (2005-2010) brought out 6-femora, 3-humeri and 2-sacra. They were derived from different localities and bio-stratigraphic and archaeological contexts, and posed a challenge of association with the calvarium or with other unknown hominins. The present study is undertaken to address this problem, and the postcranial bones are sorted into possible morphotypes based on criteria of robustness, estimated sex and stature/body size under the control of their contexts. The study distinguished two major morphotypes which reflect the process of humanization in the central Narmada valley and a possible evolutionary scenario for South Asia. The earliest morphotype is a “robust tall hominin”, recognized as a unique hybrid cf. H. heidelbergensis, represented by the calvarium and two femora. It appeared around 300 - 150 ka in association with megaterrestrial fauna and late Acheulian tools-kit. The second morphotype is a “short and stocky” hominin, named Homo narmadensis Sp. Nov. This is hitherto unrecognized hominin represented by eight fossil bones in association with the “Upper Group fauna” and Middle to Upper Palaeolithic industry. It appeared about 150 - 100 ka and continued to ca. 40 ka, and was the likely precursor to the “short-bodied” ancient populations of India, including the Andaman pygmy.