About Art:-
Kerala mural paintings are a type of art done in temples for more than 2000 years by local artists and passed down through families. These paintings are famous for being beautiful, clear, and symmetrical. They were used to show stories from religion and mythology on the walls of temples and churches in South India starting from the 8th century. The artists who create these traditional murals are highly skilled and creative, making this art form a valuable part of Kerala's heritage.

In this art, artists use traditional colours like red, yellow ochre, green, blue, white, and black. This set of colours is called "panchvarna," meaning five-coloured. Colours are essential in Kerala mural painting, bringing energy and liveliness to the detailed artwork. The colour palette of these paintings is a mix of lively shades, mainly drawn from the beauty of nature. Initially, artists used traditional mineral pigments, but nowadays, modern acrylic and oil-based paints are also used.

A traditional mural is an artwork painted or applied directly onto walls, ceilings or any other permanent surface. In murals, architectural elements of the given space are harmoniously incorporated into its creation. Among murals, the ones from Kerala stand out for their finesse.

Kerala Mural paintings are a distinctive form of art that originated in the southern Indian state of Kerala.  The art form is characterized by vibrant colours, intricate details, and a flat, stylized representation.

The "Ayodhya Return" or "Ayodhya Wapasi" of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Hanuman, and Vibhishana aboard the Pushpak Vimana is a significant event in the Hindu epic Ramayana. In a Kerala mural painting depicting the Ayodhya Return of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Hanuman, and Vibhishana on the Pushpak Vimana. 

The following scene depicted in this painting:

Central Figures: Lord Rama would likely be depicted in the center of the painting, accompanied by Sita and Lakshmana. They would be adorned in royal attire, with Lord Rama possibly holding his bow and arrow, and Sita carrying a lotus flower. Lakshmana might be shown standing beside them, holding his bow and arrows as well.
Hanuman: Hanuman, the devoted follower of Lord Rama, would be depicted flying the Pushpaka Vimana or standing near it. He might be shown in a reverent posture, looking up at Lord Rama or holding onto the Vimana.
Vibhishana: Vibhishana, the brother of the demon king Ravana who sided with Lord Rama, might also be included in the painting, often shown in a respectful posture. He might be shown standing near the Pushpak Vimana or bowing down before Lord Rama.
Pushpak Vimana: The mythical flying chariot, Pushpak Vimana, would be a central element of the composition, often depicted as a majestic vehicle adorned with flowers and jewels. It would be shown hovering in the sky, with Lord Rama and his companions aboard.
Background: The background of the painting might depict the cityscape of Ayodhya, with its grand palaces, temples, and lush greenery, representing the joyous return of Lord Rama to his kingdom.
Details: The mural painting would likely feature vibrant colors, intricate details, and a sense of grandeur to capture the divine and celebratory atmosphere of the Ayodhya Return. Symbolic elements such as auspicious motifs, celestial beings, and divine blessings might also be included to enhance the spiritual significance of the scene.

The artist has skillfully employed the traditional technique of Kerala mural art, incorporating various layers of colours to enhance the detailing and shading in this artwork.

Saju is a student of the famed Guruvayur temple Devaswom-run Institute of Mural Painting with extensive training in fine arts, art history and mural art. The temple, which is renowned for its exquisite murals, set up the Institute in 1989 to train youngsters and preserve the ancient art form. He is also actively involved in restoration work of Kerala Murals to preserve this heritage art.

Know more - About the Artist