Kerala mural painting is a centuries-old temple art form depicting scenes from Hindu epics and mythology on the walls of temples, palaces and, in modern times, canvas and paper. The style is distinguished by bold outlines, flat perspective, dense composition and a limited natural colour palette dominated by ochre, red, green, yellow and black.
Traditionally created using pigments derived from minerals, plants and burnt materials, murals were painted directly onto specially prepared lime-plastered walls. Institutions such as the Guruvayur Devaswom Institute of Mural Painting have helped preserve and teach the technique, ensuring it continues beyond its temple origins into contemporary art markets.
How It Is Made
Traditional murals begin with preparing a wall surface using multiple layers of lime plaster, smoothed and dried to create a stable base. Artists then sketch outlines freehand before applying natural pigments in a specific sequence, starting with the base colours and finishing with fine detailing.
- Pigments are traditionally derived from minerals, charcoal and plant extracts
- The wall or canvas base is prepared with lime plaster or a treated cloth surface
- Outlines are drawn first, followed by layered colour application
- A large temple mural can take weeks to months to complete
Modern practitioners often paint on canvas, cloth or paper using similar pigment techniques for the retail and gallery market.
Temple Art Heritage
Kerala's mural tradition developed largely between the 9th and 12th centuries and flourished under royal and temple patronage, with notable surviving examples at temples in Guruvayur, Ettumanoor, Vadakkunnathan and Padmanabhapuram. The subject matter is drawn chiefly from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and Puranic stories.
- Distinct regional schools developed within Kerala's temple mural tradition
- The Guruvayur Devaswom Institute of Mural Painting trains contemporary artists in the classical technique
- Many temple murals are protected as heritage art and cannot be touched or purchased
Contemporary artists have adapted the style for framed works, blending temple aesthetics with modern subjects.
Where to See and Buy Mural Painting
Original temple murals can be viewed at sites such as Guruvayur, Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple and Padmanabhapuram Palace, though these are not for sale as they are heritage artworks. Contemporary mural-style paintings on canvas are sold through art galleries in Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi, as well as SMSM Institute.
- Buy from recognised institutes or galleries linked to trained mural artists
- Check whether natural or synthetic pigments were used, as this affects price and longevity
- Framed canvas works are easier to transport than larger panel pieces
Traveller Tips
- Visit temple sites like Guruvayur or Ettumanoor to see authentic murals, but note these are not for sale
- Buy contemporary mural art from recognised institutes or galleries to ensure trained craftsmanship
- Ask whether natural pigments were used, as it affects both authenticity and price
- Have canvas artworks rolled or crated properly for safe transport
Frequently Asked Questions
What subjects do Kerala murals typically depict?
They mostly depict scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and other Hindu Puranic stories.
Can I buy an original temple mural?
No, temple murals are protected heritage art; only contemporary canvas works by trained artists are available for purchase.
What pigments are traditionally used?
Natural pigments derived from minerals, plants and charcoal, applied on lime-plastered surfaces.
Where can I learn Kerala mural painting?
The Guruvayur Devaswom Institute of Mural Painting is a recognised centre for formal training in the technique.
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