The State of Kerala
holds the second place in having the largest collection of
archeologically important Mural sites, the first being
Rajasthan. The mural traditions of Kerala evolved as a
complement to her unique architectural style is propagated
through the walls of Temples spread over the length and
breadth of Kerala. These paintings on the walls of Temples are
characterized by their linear accuracy, adherence of color
symbolism, elaborate ornamentations and sensitive portrayal of
emotions. The theme of drawings are mainly from Hindu epics
and puranas that they evoke Bhakthi besides being masterpieces
of art. Therefore the art of decorating the Temple walls was a
part of religious art. Apart from the highly stylized pictures
of Hindu Gods and Goddesses, the Flora and Fauna and the other
aspect of nature were also pasteurized as back drops in highly
styled manners. The natural colors used in painting and the
wall surfaces used as canvasses were specially set with rustic
combinations so that the mural paintings sustain for
centuries. The Murals in Kerala are part of a fascinating
cultural heritage nurtured through Temples.
The walls of the sanctum sanctorum of
lord Shiva and that of Lord Vishnu in this Temple are adorned
with rare and beautiful mural paintings drawn by Sree Mammiyur
Krishnankutty Nair, the master mural painter and a promoter of
the Mammiyur style of this unique art. He was assisted by his
students in drawing almost all figures in mural paintings in
accordance with thier Dhyana slokas and these beautiful pieces
of paintings depict the accomplished Mammiyur style in mural
painting.
