History & Origins
Kerala Mural Paintings are among India's oldest surviving wall art traditions, dating back over 1,500 years. These paintings traditionally adorned the walls and ceilings of Hindu temples and palaces across Kerala. The art form follows a strict iconographic tradition derived from texts like the Chitrasutra (from Vishnu Dharmottara) and depicts deities, celestial beings, and mythological narratives in vivid, bold outlines.
Cultural Significance
Kerala murals represent an unbroken artistic lineage connecting ancient Hindu cosmology to present-day craftsmanship. Each painting is a meditation — artists are expected to follow spiritual disciplines while creating. The works are not just decorative but are considered sacred acts of devotion.
Where to find it today
Found in famous temples like Vadakkunnathan Temple in Thrissur, Krishnapuram Palace, and the Mattancherry Palace. Today practiced by trained artists for homes, hotels, and cultural institutions.
Seen in real spaces
A few examples of Kerala Mural Paintings placed in different room types.
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