The earliest known Kerala mural paintings date back to the 9th century AD. However, the tradition is thought to be much older, with roots in the prehistoric cave paintings of India.Most of the noted mural works of Kerala were done between the 15th and 19th centuries, under the patronage of the Hindu dynasties that ruled the region. During this time, mural paintings were commissioned to decorate the walls of temples, palaces, and other public buildings.The tradition of Kerala mural painting declined in the 19th century, due to the British colonial rule and the introduction of Western art styles. However, it has experienced a revival in recent decades, with artists working to preserve and promote this unique art form.