Kerala mural paintings are the frescos depicting Hindu mythology in Kerala. Ancient temples and palaces in Kerala, India, display an abounding tradition of mural paintings mostly dating back between the 9th to 12th centuries CE when this form of art enjoyed royal patronage.

The oldest murals in Kerala were discovered in the rock-cut cave temple of Thirunandikkara, which is now in the Kanyakumari district of Tamilnadu. The hall of the cave must have once been richly decorated with paintings.

Jun 16, 2023 · Kerala mural paintings are a beautiful and intricate art form that has a rich history and cultural significance in not just the state of Kerala, but that of India as well. It represents centuries of devotion, representing God in all forms and of all sects.

Dec 11, 2020 · The mural paintings of Kerala remains the most iconic symbol of the region’s culture and artistic traditions. The oldest of India’s ‘drawing’ tradition could be the Jataka Tales etched on the walls of the Ajantha caves.

I specialize in traditional Kerala Mural paintings and Indian mural paintings. My works mainly dipict Lord Ganapathi, Lord Krishna, and Perumthachan; a legendary carpenter and an expert architect. View Portfolio

The traditional mural paintings of Kerala are a fine art of skill and creative excellence. Most of the noted mural works of Kerala were done between the 15th and 19th centuries. They bear a stamp of uniqueness in techniques used and aesthetics.

Dec 31, 2023 · Kerala temple murals predominantly depict mythological stories, religious narratives, and cultural symbols. The pantheon of Hindu deities, such as Vishnu, Shiva, Devi, and Krishna, feature prominently in these paintings. The murals also illustrate episodes from the epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as stories from the Puranas.

Kerala mural paintings, deeply ingrained in the temple architecture of Kerala, are easily identified by their vibrant colours and excellent craftsmanship. However, these go beyond simple decorations and provide significant perspectives into Kerala’s cultural and spiritual character.

The murals of Kerala evolved through the significant influences of ancient Dravidian rituals like Kalamezhuthu and Patayani. The murals of Kerala are unparalleled in their subtlety, sharpness and ethereal beauty. Here we have listed the top 10 Kerala mural artists and their mural paintings.

Kerala murals are a vibrant and intricate form of art that originated in the Indian state of Kerala. With roots dating back to the 8th century, these murals adorn the walls of temples, palaces, and churches, narrating mythological tales, religious themes, and cultural traditions.