Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan announced the progress of the restoration work, sharing a video on his Facebook page, highlighting efforts to revive these artistic treasures while maintaining their authenticity.
The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), in collaboration with Vasthuvidya Gurukulam, Aranmula, is leading the conservation efforts. These murals, dating back to the 18th century, are revered as exquisite examples of Kerala’s unique Dravidian mural art, reflecting devotion, simplicity, and grace themes.
Preserving Kerala’s Rich Artistic Heritage
The temple’s murals, adorning both its inner and outer walls, depict various Hindu mythological scenes. The inner gopuram walls feature images of Pradosha Dance, Aghoramurthy, and Ananthasayanam, while the outer walls showcase Vettashastav, Venugopalan, Gopika Vastrakshepam, and the Lasya Dance of the Gopikas.Among these, the Ananthasayanam mural, one of Kerala’s most prominent, has already been restored, with a formal inauguration ceremony expected soon. Another significant artwork, the Gopika Vastrakshepam mural, depicting four Gopikas pleading with Lord Krishna, had suffered defacement over time. The restoration aims to revive such lost details.
Rs 54-Lakh Project for Complete Restoration
The Rs 54-lakh conservation initiative is being executed in phases to ensure the preservation of all prominent murals. TDB president P S Prasanth confirmed that further restoration efforts would follow after the successful completion of the first phase.Art experts regard the Nataraja (Dancing Shiva) mural on the temple’s southern inner wall as the most outstanding masterpiece. The global significance of these murals was further cemented when European art critic Stella Kramrisch documented them in her books, bringing international recognition to Kerala’s rich artistic traditions.
Beyond its murals, the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is an architectural marvel, also famed for the Ezhara Ponnana—seven-and-a-half golden elephant figurines—paraded annually during its grand festival.
This restoration initiative is about reviving a visual heritage and safeguarding an invaluable part of Kerala’s cultural and spiritual identity.
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