About Vasthuvidya Gurukulam
Vasthuvidya Gurukulam is a state-run institution established in 1993 under the Department of Culture, Government of Kerala, dedicated to promoting and preserving traditional architecture and mural paintings. Located on the banks of the Pampa River near Parthasarathy Temple in Aranmula, it serves as India's pioneer government institution for Vasthu Shastra education. The gurukulam offers training programs, research facilities, consultancy services, and features an art gallery showcasing traditional Kerala mural paintings.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore the mural art gallery displaying traditional Kerala paintings and observe live mural painting demonstrations by experienced artists. The campus showcases traditional Kerala architecture principles and includes workshops, studios, a reference library, and exhibition halls featuring architectural models and drawings. The serene riverside setting provides a peaceful environment to learn about ancient Indian architectural science and witness heritage conservation efforts.
Key highlights
- 01
Mural Art Gallery with traditional Kerala paintings
- 02
Live mural painting demonstrations by skilled artists
- 03
Traditional Kerala architecture showcase
- 04
Reference library on Vasthu Shastra and architecture
- 05
Exhibition hall with architectural models and drawings
- 06
Riverside location on the banks of Pampa River
History of Vasthuvidya Gurukulam
Established on November 17, 1993, Vasthuvidya Gurukulam was founded as India's first government institution dedicated to traditional architecture and mural painting preservation. It was declared the National Nodal Agency for Vasthu and related subjects by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India, and received assistance from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Culture & Context
The institution plays a vital role in preserving and revitalizing Vasthuvidya, the ancient Indian science of architecture that emphasizes harmony between built environments and natural elements. It trains new generations in traditional Kerala architecture, mural painting techniques, and heritage conservation, bridging the gap between traditional wisdom and contemporary practices.