Paintings are the one of the most appropriate ways for the expressions of human imaginations and thoughts since time immemorial. This form of art has been an integral part of the culture and tradition of India. Historical records have furnished numerous evidences of beautiful paintings dating back to the age of early civilization. Various caves and religious places hold the testaments of varied painting forms. Paintings of India have been hugely influenced by the different cultures prevailing in different regions of the country. However, in course of time, many regions have developed their unique style of painting which later became the representatives of their cultural heritage. Paintings of Southern India, over time, have also developed as hugely acclaimed forms of art in India.

Paintings of Kerala
Art is highly developed in the state of Kerala. One of the most acclaimed paintings of the state is the mural paintings of Kerala. These are mainly the frescos that depict legends and mythology. This exotic art can be witnessed in temples and churches of the state. This ancient form of art can be traced back to 9th century. The state has a rich and ancient tradition of mural paintings. In mural paintings beautiful imaginations find exquisite expressions in unique forms and vivid hues. The colours usually used in these paintings are herbal vegetable dyes, minerals, fruit juices and chemicals extracted from roots, earth, stones etc. Bamboo pieces are sharpened to draw the outlines and the brushes for painting are composed of blades made out of roots and certain type of grasses. Mural paintings exhibit elaborate scenes of religious as well as mystic themes. Brilliant manifestations of mural paintings can be seen in temples at Trikodithanam, Vaikom, Udayanapuram, Triprangode, Kumaranalloor etc.

Paintings of Karnataka
One of the most famous traditional paintings of Karnataka is Mysore painting. The history of Mysore painting can be traced back to 2nd century BC, Ajanta times. During the rule of the Vijayanagara Kings from 1336 to 1565 AD, the paintings gained further prominence. These paintings are characterized by their detailed depiction, muted colours and elegance. In Mysore paintings, colours used were extracted from natural sources like vegetables, flowers, leaves and minerals. Vibrant colours, delicate brush strokes and beautiful delineation of figures are the most prominent features of Mysore paintings. Mural paintings are also popular in the state of Karnataka. Several evidences support the fact that these paintings form an inseparable part of the tradition and cultural heritage of Karnataka since ancient times. Ancient caves like Caves of Badamai have been found to house magnificent samples of mural painting that consolidates the fact that this form of art had existed in India since 7th century AD. Beautiful narrations adorn these caves depicting scenes from day to day life of common people. Mural paintings of Karnataka gained further popularity during Vijayanagar Empire, Chalukyan period and Mysore dynasties. The paintings in each of these phases however conferred unique characteristic features.

Paintings of Tamil Nadu
Tanjore painting is a highly renowned form of painting which is centred mainly in the town of Thanjavur, in Tamil Nadu. It is an ancient painting having its origin enrooted in 1600 AD when Thanjavur Nayakas greatly encouraged different forms of art. The most alluring features of Tanjore paintings are vibrant hues, surface richness and compact composition. Gold foils are used in these paintings to provide a rich look to the paintings. Most common depictions in this art are the saints, Hindu Gods and Goddess. These are basically done on wooden planks in the form of panels. Modern forms of Tanjore paintings have become famous as souvenirs for South Indian festivals and occasions. Apart from this, mural paintings are also prevalent in the state of Tamil Nadu since long. Portrayal of mythological tales through mural paintings forms the adornment of several temples in Tamil Nadu.

Indian painting previously hovered mostly around religious beliefs but later owing to the influences of a number of cultures and traditions they evolved as the most versatile form of expressions. A number of enchanting paintings emerged in south India, which have gained acclamations all over the country. Mural Paintings are the most common paintings prevalent almost in all the regions of south India. Paintings of Southern India greatly enrich the cultural heritage of the country.