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.

Anantha Sayana Murti is Lord Vishnu reclining on Anantha (five-headed celestial snake or Adi Sesha) with his right hand placed on Shiva Lingam. By his side is Goddess Lakshmi ( Goddess of prosperity) and Bhudevi (Goddess of Earth), and from his navel, Lord Brahma emerges on Lotus.

The Ananthashayana painting you described is a beautiful representation of Lord Vishnu in the form of Ananthashayanam, which translates to "sleeping on the serpent Anantha." This iconic pose depicts Lord Vishnu reclining on the serpent Anantha, also known as Adi Shesha or Seshanaga, in the celestial abode of Vaikuntha.

In this painting, Lord Vishnu is depicted in a serene yogic sleep posture, with his head resting on the lap of his consort Sridevi (Goddess Lakshmi) and his feet resting on the lap of Bhumi Devi (Goddess Earth). Sridevi and Bhumidevi, symbolizing wealth and earth respectively, are depicted holding Vishnu's head and feet, emphasizing their roles as the nurturing forces of the universe. This symbolises the cosmic harmony and balance maintained by Vishnu, who sustains the universe through his divine presence.

The narrative basis of this painting in Kerala mural art is the story of Santhana Gopalam, which refers to the divine episode of Lord Vishnu taking the form of a cowherd (Gopala) to protect and nurture his devotees. This story underscores Vishnu's boundless compassion and his willingness to assume various forms to uphold righteousness and protect his devotees. The Ananthashayana painting thus encapsulates profound spiritual symbolism and narrative richness within the vibrant tradition of Kerala mural art.

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.

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