14 Famous Wall Murals of India
India, with its rich tapestry of history and culture, is home to some of the most extraordinary wall murals. These ancient cave paintings, ornate palace murals, and temple paintings are evidence of the evergrowing artistic heritage and sensibilities of the country. Let’s talk about a few of the celebrated murals across India.
1. Ajanta Caves, Maharashtra
The Ajanta Caves, located in Maharashtra, are renowned for their exquisite Buddhist wall murals. Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, these murals depict various Jataka tales and Buddhist themes, displaying the spiritual fervour of ancient Indian painters. The detailed frescoes include scenes from the life of the Buddha and various bodhisattvas, which although have been worn down are still significant for their narrative quality.
2. Ellora Caves, Maharashtra
Another treasure in Maharashtra, the Ellora Caves also boasts of impressive collection of murals alongside its rock-cut architecture. The Ellora Caves murals amalgamate Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions. Notable is the depiction of the divine and mythological figures, you will experience the artistic culmination of the 5th to 10th centuries CE.
3. Sittanavasal Cave, Tamil Nadu
In Tamil Nadu, the Sittanavasal Cave’s unique Jain murals are a must. Dating back to the 7th century, these murals are done in the fresco-secco style. The murals feature a ‘khatika-bhumi,’ or water tank, surrounded by ‘bhavyas,’ elephants, and fish, one of which is seen leaping out of the water, and pillars with images of the Pandya king Srimara Srivallabha and his queen.
4. Mattancherry Palace, Kerala
The Mattancherry Palace in Kerala, also known as the Dutch Palace, houses a stunning array of murals. Created in the 16th century, these paintings blend Hindu mythology and royal life. The murals vividly depict scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and the daily routines of the royal lives.
5. Meenakshi Temple, Tamil Nadu
The Meenakshi Temple in Tamil Nadu is an architectural masterpiece with its tall ‘gopuram’ and vivid murals. These murals illustrate the divine stories associated with the temple deities, showcasing colourful and intricate depictions of Hindu mythology and rituals.
6. Padmanabhapuram Palace, Kerala
In Kerala, the Padmanabhapuram Palace is famous for its beautifully preserved murals. Dating back to the 16th century, these paintings are known for their mythological themes. The murals depict scenes from Hindu epics and offer a glimpse into the royal life of the era.
7. Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
Kanchipuram, often referred to as the ‘City of Thousand Temples,’ is home to several ancient murals. Noteworthy among them are the murals in the Kailasanatha Temple, which showcase intricate patterns and divine figures, reflecting the rich artistic heritage of Tamil Nadu.
8. Shekhawati Murals in Rajasthan, India
The Shekhawati region in Rajasthan boasts vibrant frescoes that adorn havelis and mansions. These 18th and 19th-century murals cover a variety of themes, from courtly life and battles to folklore and mythology, making them a significant aspect of Rajasthani art.
9. Jogimara and Sitabenga Caves, Chhattisgarh
The Jogimara and Sitabenga Caves in Chhattisgarh are known for their ancient cave paintings, which are among the earliest examples of human art in India. The murals here include geometric patterns and animal figures, offering insight into the prehistoric art practices of the region.
10. Maratha Palace, Thanjavur
The Maratha Palace in Thanjavur is celebrated for its exquisite frescoes. These murals, dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, include detailed depictions of royal life, divine figures, and mythological stories, showcasing the artistic skills of the Maratha period.
11. Hampi, Karnataka
Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, is famous for its historic murals and carvings. The murals in the temples of Hampi, including the Virupaksha Temple, are renowned for their intricate depictions of Hindu deities and scenes from Hindu epics.
12. Kollur Mookambika Temple, Karnataka
The Kollur Mookambika Temple in Karnataka features a set of beautiful wall murals depict various aspects of Hindu mythology and temple rituals, adding to the temple’s spiritual ambiance.
13. Mehrangarh Fort, Rajasthan
The Mehrangarh Fort in Rajasthan is home to some stunning wall murals within its palaces. These murals, created during the 17th and 18th centuries, illustrate scenes from the lives of the Rajput rulers and their courtly affairs.
14. Armamalai Cave Paintings, Tamil Nadu
The Armamalai Cave Paintings in Tamil Nadu are notable for their ancient frescoes, which are believed to date back to the 7th century. These murals depict Jain themes and are celebrated for their historical and artistic value.
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