Kerala Mural Painting – A Living Tradition of Divine Art

Echoes of Tradition in Every Stroke

Kerala mural painting is one of the most exquisite forms of traditional Indian art, which originated in the temples and palaces of Kerala between the 9th and 12th centuries. Rooted in Dravidian art and Vedic traditions, these murals depict Hindu mythology, epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, and divine deities. With their vibrant colors, intricate details, and symbolic expressions, Kerala murals transform ordinary walls into sacred spaces of devotion.

Divine Depictions of Gods

Kerala mural paintings primarily focus on Hindu gods and goddesses. Artists vividly portray deities such as Lord Krishna, Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, Goddess Durga, Saraswati, Ganesha, and Lakshmi. Through expressive faces, symbolic gestures (mudras), and bright hues, these works of art bring spirituality to life.

Brushstrokes of Devotion – The Storytelling Tradition

These murals narrate timeless stories—from Lord Rama’s Ayodhya Wapasi (return to Ayodhya) to the playful Krishna leelas. They often illustrate coronations, battles, divine blessings, and joyous festivals. Consequently, Kerala murals act as visual scriptures, blending mythology with devotion.

Artistic Features & Style

Kerala mural paintings stand out for:

• Vivid backgrounds in red, yellow, and green for divine energy.

• Large almond-shaped eyes and calm expressions.

• Flowing lines and graceful forms inspired by nature and spirituality.

• Strict iconographic rules, ensuring symbolic accuracy.

Artists traditionally use natural pigments:

• Red – from laterite or red earth

• Yellow – from turmeric or yellow clay

• Green – from indigo and turmeric

• Black – from soot or charcoal

• White – from lime

Binders like coconut water and neem extracts help preserve the artwork.

Step-by-Step Traditional Method

1. Wall Preparation – Plastering with lime and smoothing with stones.

2. Sketching – Outlining designs with charcoal or red ochre.

3. Line Work – Defining shapes with intricate strokes.

4. Color Filling – Applying pigments in traditional layers.

5. Shading & Detailing – Adding depth, emotion, and symbolism.

6. Finishing – Applying natural polish for long-lasting vibrance.

Where to See Kerala Murals

Some of the finest examples can be found at:

• Guruvayur Temple, Thrissur – Krishna’s divine leelas.

• Mattancherry Palace, Kochi – Ramayana murals and jewelry-rich depictions.

• Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple – The iconic Nataraja mural.

• Padmanabhapuram Palace – Intricate royal and mythological murals.

Cultural Significance

Kerala murals are not just decorative paintings; they are living traditions of devotion and storytelling. Every gesture, ornament, and color carries spiritual meaning. Thus, these artworks serve as a bridge between the divine and the devotee, keeping Kerala’s sacred heritage alive in both temples and modern homes.