Kerala Murals

Art Form Details

The Kerala mural style draws inspiration from indigenous ritual art forms such as Kalamezhuthu and Patayani. Kerala mural paintings are among the world's most renowned mural traditions and have deep spiritual roots, depicting themes from Hindu mythology and epics, including the playful exploits of Krishna, as well as the mystic forms of Shiva and Shakti. They also recount stories of legendary heroes from a bygone era. This traditional art style dates to the seventh and eighth centuries CE and is characterised by vivacious imagery, bold strokes and vivid colours.