Let’s face it, mural paintings are everywhere these days. You’ll see them in hotel lobbies, living rooms, cafes, and even on T-shirts. But here’s a question most people don’t ask:
“Is this a real Kerala mural painting, or just a lookalike?”

If you’re someone who loves art with meaning, detail, and history, Let’s break down how to spot authentic mural paintings in Kerala and why choosing the real deal truly matters.

1. Look at the Technique (It’s Not Just Brushwork)
Real Kerala murals follow a very specific set of traditional rules, from sketching to coloring.

• Flat, bold colors like red, green, and saffron dominate.
• Every figure has a stylized expression and posture rooted in ancient shilpa shastras.
• No artificial shading or realistic backgrounds like modern paintings.

Paintings that don’t follow these basic principles may still look good but are likely not part of the true Kerala mural tradition.

2. Is It Hand-Painted or a High-Quality Print?
A traditional mural is hand painted, usually on canvas or directly on walls, following strict classical rules. At Sadan Melam’s Mural Paintings, our original works are painted by hand, brushstroke by brushstroke, using oil colors and traditional techniques.

However, not every space or budget suits an original mural, and that’s okay. That’s why we also offer high quality canvas prints of our own original works. These are faithful reproductions of hand painted murals, made accessible to those who love the art form but want a more affordable or flexible option.

The key difference is transparency. If it’s a print, it should be presented as one, not passed off as an original hand painted piece. That’s what makes it ethical and authentic.

3. Understand the Story in the Painting
Every authentic mural tells a story. Whether it’s Krishna playing with the gopis, Shiva meditating, or a goddess in full divine form, there’s always symbolism and narrative.

If you’re seeing random elements stitched together with no flow or cultural background, it’s probably not genuine.

4. Check the Artist’s Roots and Style
Ask:

Who painted this mural?

Have they trained in the traditional style?

Do they follow the mural grammar?

Why Does Authenticity Even Matter?

When you choose an original mural:

• You’re preserving a 1000 year old art form.
• You’re supporting real artists, not mass manufacturers.
• You’re bringing home a piece of cultural heritage, not just decoration.

Also, authentic murals have a unique energy. They elevate your space not just visually, but emotionally and spiritually.

A Quick Checklist to Spot Authentic Kerala Murals:
Hand painted (or clearly labelled high quality print)

• Follows traditional color palette and rules
• Symbolic and storytelling elements
• Signature or details about the artist
• Texture visible on canvas or wall
• Created using natural or oil colors, not digital effects

Final Thoughts
In a world full of filters, copies, and fast-made products, real art still stands out. Mural paintings, especially the best mural paintings in Kerala are more than just decoration. They carry stories, emotions, and centuries of tradition.

So the next time you see a mural, look closely. Feel it. Question it. And if you want one that’s real, rooted, and respectful of tradition, you know where to find us.

Explore our hand painted originals and canvas print collections at our website and bring home a mural that truly matters,