Kerala mural paintings stand as a testimony to the state’s deep spiritual, cultural, and artistic heritage. These paintings are not just decorative elements but reflections of mythology, history, and devotion. Originating in ancient times, this art form has been nurtured and preserved in temple walls, palace interiors, and now modern-day canvases. The vivid use of natural colours and stylised characters makes these murals stand out globally. The heritage is both visually stunning and spiritually significant, rooted in tradition yet adapting to contemporary spaces.
Surviving murals mostly belong to the period between the 15th and 19th centuries.
Religious and Mythological Themes
Common subjects include stories from epics like the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas.
Paintings represent deities, sages, and scenes of devotion.
Unique Artistic Style
Paintings follow a codified system of rules for proportion, colour usage, and facial expressions.
Characters are often depicted with highly stylised features and elaborate ornaments.
Natural Colour Palette
Known as Pancha Varna, meaning five colours:
Ochre Yellow – from mineral sources.
Red – from red ochre.
Green – extracted from Garcinia morella and Indigofera tinctoria.
Black – derived from soot.
White – made using lime.
Adhesives and resins used are completely natural.
Spiritual Process
The final step of painting, ‘Mizhi Thurakkal’, or opening of the eyes, signifies the spiritual completeness of the figure.
This step adds life and emotion (bhava) to the character.
Important Sites and Murals in Kerala
Location
Significance
Thirunandikkara Cave Temple
Oldest example of Kerala mural painting; now in Tamil Nadu
Krishnapuram Palace
Houses the largest mural panel – Gajendra Moksham
Mattancherry Palace
Known for detailed mural depictions of the Ramayana
Ettumanoor Temple
Features murals with intricate religious and spiritual imagery
Thiruvattar Temple
Noted for early examples of mural art
Guruvayur Temple
Houses murals portraying divine and mythological themes
Vadakkumnathan Temple
Displays murals linked to Shaivite traditions
Thiruvanchikulam Temple
Houses with murals portraying divine and mythological themes
Materials and Methods Used
Material
Source
Black pigment
Collected from lamp soot
Red and ochre yellow
Sourced from iron oxide minerals
Green pigment
Made from plant leaves – Garcinia morella and Indigofera tinctoria
White pigment
Prepared using lime
Binder (adhesive)
Created from natural resins and extracts
Step-by-Step Process:
Outlines are drawn first using black pigment.
Colours are added gradually, following traditional rules.
Details are added to ornaments, attire, and backgrounds.
The final act is the drawing of eyes, marking the completion.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
Visual Storytelling
Murals act as spiritual guides, conveying morals and values through visuals.
Paintings are didactic, meant for both decoration and education.
Cultural Timeline
Murals reflect the varied historical and cultural influences on Kerala.
Art portrays changes in religious practices, attire, and social customs.
Preservation of Heritage
Paintings serve as a visual record of Kerala’s temple architecture and royal lifestyle.
Mural art helps in sustaining traditional knowledge systems.
Challenges in Preservation
Challenge
Impact
Neglect during renovation
Resulted in the loss of original artworks at temples and palaces
Lack of awareness
Reduced public interest in preservation of traditional techniques
Use of synthetic paints
Compromised the original colour quality and durability of newer murals
Restoration efforts are currently underway in some heritage sites.
Government and private bodies are promoting training and awareness of traditional mural techniques.
Modern Adaptations of Kerala Murals
Canvas Murals
Artists now paint on movable canvas using traditional styles.
Artworks are sold as home décor and collectible items.
Fashion Integration
Murals appear on sarees, shawls, handbags, and fashion accessories.
Designs maintain the traditional themes while adapting to new media.
Commercial Products
Mural-inspired designs are now seen on:
Ceramic pots
Flower vases
Jewelry boxes
Interior wall panels
Educational Courses
Institutions and NGOs offer training programs in mural painting.
Young artists are taught the traditional rules and natural colour-making techniques.
Famous Kerala Mural Artists
Name
Contribution
Sadanandan
Known for reviving traditional mural practices in the modern era
M.K. Sreenivasan
Conducted mural painting workshops for students and artisans
G. Venu
Promoted mural art education through theatre and performance arts
Final Analysis
Kerala mural paintings are not merely artworks—they are cultural scriptures painted with devotion, precision, and emotion. Their value lies in both their aesthetic appeal and their deep spiritual and historical relevance. While modern interpretations have helped sustain the art form, efforts must continue to preserve the authenticity and techniques of these murals for future generations. By embracing this unique art form, Kerala continues to honour its rich heritage and vibrant cultural identity.
