Kerala Mural Paintings: A Timeless Tradition of Art and Mythology

Mural paintings are a form of visual art which is created by applying pigments on large surfaces, which includes walls and ceilings, depicting themes ranging from mythology to everyday life. Kerala mural painting is one of India’s most renowned styles, known for its vibrant colors, intricate detailing, and deep connection to religious and cultural stories.

The history of Kerala mural painting dates back to the 9th century. There was evidence found of its practice in temples and royal palaces. It also draws inspiration from Hindu mythology and local folklore, with themes depicting deities, celestial beings and impactful scenes from epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata. Today, Kerala mural painting is a celebrated cultural heritage, practiced by skilled artisans who continue to uphold the legacy of such an ancient art form.

Mural paintings in Kerala traditionally used natural pigments obtained from plants, local minerals, and nature. These colors were then combined with binding substances such as lime or egg tempera to create textured yet harmonious and vivid compositions ensuring durability.

In Kerala, mural paintings were created on the walls of temples, palaces, and homes. These large surfaces offered ample space to portray mythological, religious, and cultural tales. The deep connection between the murals and the surfaces contributed to their longevity.

Kerala mural paintings were brought to life through vibrant colors applied intricately to tell stories. The artists outlined figures and used shading to add depth and dimension. The layering of colors and brushwork enhanced textures, elevating the visual impact of the scenes. These techniques heightened the beauty of the artwork, including its cultural and spiritual narratives.

Kerala mural painting is closely tied to the region’s religious history. The Chitrasutra, part of the ancient Shilpashastra texts, provided guidelines on how to use colors to draw figures on surfaces, establishing a definite structure for murals across India, including Kerala. These scriptures emphasized the role of art, central to Kerala murals, which focused on religious and mythological themes.

The craft developed in the kingdoms of southern India and flourished around the Common Era, particularly during the rule of the Chera dynasty in the 9th century. By the 12th century, temples became filled with idols of various gods and numerous scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana. These murals served not only as religious art but also as an educational tool for the population of the time, which was largely illiterate back in the day.

The dominant themes rooted in Hindu mythology were closely connected with the region's culture and religion. Temples were sacred spaces where murals projected mythological tales with deities such as Vishnu, Shiva, and Durga, along with other gods and goddesses, depicted to highlight their attributes and symbolism.

Another important theme was royal portraits, these were commissioned by kings in order to record and glamourise their rule. These portraits reflected the king’s lineage, political power, and status. Such artworks were commonly displayed in temples and palaces, merging sacred and royal elements to illustrate the connection between holiness and royalty.

Nature also played a significant role in Kerala murals. Elephants, peacocks, and other animals would frequently appear to symbolize strength, wisdom, and good fortune. The peacock, linked to the goddess Saraswati, represented beauty, grace, and spiritual enlightenment.

These motifs highlighted the presence of the holy divine in nature, reinforcing the connection between physical and spiritual realms. Kerala mural paintings also convey deeper philosophical meanings, reflecting the holistic worldview of the region's culture. The spiritual importance of these repetitive motifs shapes the aesthetic of Kerala's mural tradition.

1. Renowned Craftsmen: With top artists (including Padma-Shri awardees and Kerala muralist P.K. Sadanandan, who revived ancient murals), Rooftop ensures only the best craftsmen educate our learners.

2. Step-by-step guidance: With established artists on board, you will receive guidance at every step during your journey of learning an art form.

3. Cultural Heritage: Each workshop is designed to educate you about the rich cultural/ spiritual significance of an art form and the artistic traditions of that specific region.

• What colors are used in Kerala murals?

Kerala murals are created using natural, mineral-based pigments combined with crushed stones, plant dyes, and organic materials.

• What themes do Kerala murals depict?

Kerala murals primarily illustrate mythological tales and epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata. They also include elements of nature, capturing the spiritual and cultural essence of Kerala.

• Are Kerala murals available for home decor?

Yes, Kerala murals are available for home decor. These paintings can be customized in different sizes and themes, bringing a rich cultural and spiritual ambiance to your living space.

If you are interested to learn Kerala Mural paintings and want to know more about such distinct art forms, make sure you check out the Rooftop app for firsthand access to multiple courses, products, workshops and guidance from experts to unveil your artsy self!