Some paintings are chosen from a collection. Others are made for one home, one family and one wall.
A custom Tanjore painting is the second kind. It is planned with you, made by hand and finished to suit your space. For a pooja room, a new home, a wedding or a family milestone, it becomes a piece that stays in the family for generations. At Sri Mudhra Arts, a heritage studio in Chennai, we have been creating Tanjore art for 4 generations. This guide explains how commissioning works, so you know what to expect.
Every Painting Is a Journey
For us, a Tanjore painting is not a product that is made and shipped. It is a journey that begins with your idea and ends on your wall.
Each painting carries a story: why it was commissioned, who it is for and what it means to the family. The artist holds that story in mind from the first line to the last.
Painted in the Artist’s Pooja Room
All our painting work is done in the artist’s pooja room, not on a factory floor. The artist works there with dedication and devotion, and the deity being painted is treated with reverence from the first sketch to the final touch.
This is why our paintings feel alive. They are made through prayer as much as through skill.
The Artist’s Spiritual Journey
What makes a Tanjore painting unique is the person who paints it.
Our founder, Master Artist RK Shanmugam, has spent over 50 years devoted to this art. His spiritual journey shapes every piece, and it shows in the expression of the deity, the grace of the form and the presence of the painting in a room.
Two artists can paint the same deity and the results will feel different. The difference is faith, discipline and a lifetime of practice. This is what brings liveliness to a Tanjore painting.
Why Choose a CustomTanjore Painting
- It is made for your space. The size, colours and composition suit your wall.
- It carries meaning. You can choose the deity, the form and the details that matter to your family.
- It is one of a kind. No one else will have the same piece.
- It has presence. A painting made with devotion brings a calm, living energy into the home.
- It is made to last. A hand-finished Tanjore painting is a heritage piece, not a decoration that gets replaced.
What Can Be Customised
- The deity or subject: Ganesha, Lakshmi, Balaji, Krishna, Murugan, Amman, Saraswathi and more
- The form: for example, a particular posture, a family deity or a specific tradition
- The size: from a small devotional piece to a large statement painting for a hall or home temple
- The frame: wood, carving and finish to match your interiors
- Special details: gold work, stone work, background colours, names or inscriptions
How a Commission Works
1. A first conversation.
Tell us what you have in mind: the subject, the room and the occasion. If you have a reference, such as a family deity photo or a style you like, share it. This is where your story begins.
2. Design and sketch.
Our artists prepare a sketch for your approval.
3. Hand-crafting.
Once the design is approved, the painting is created with precise care in the artist’s pooja room. The detailed work takes time depending on the artwork, and we will give you an honest timeline once we finalise the scope.
4. Review.
Our team shares progress photos or videos through WhatsApp updates before the final finishing.
5. Finishing and packing.
The painting is framed and packed with care for safe delivery.
6. Delivery.
We deliver all over the world, with care and hassle-free options: courier, or white glove delivery if the client prefers.
Occasions for a Custom Painting
- Griha pravesh and new homes: a deity painting for the pooja room or entrance
- Weddings and anniversaries: a meaningful gift from a family or couple
- Family milestones: a blessing piece for a special year or event
- Corporate and leadership gifts: a distinctive piece for a client or institution
- Home temples: a main painting designed around the space
Questions to Think About Before You Commission
- Where will it hang? The wall, the light and the room decide the size.
- Who is it for? The family, a gift or an office.
- What tradition does the subject follow? If the form matters to your family, tell us.
- What is your timeline? Custom work needs time, so start early for festivals and weddings.
- What is your budget range? It helps us suggest the right options.
Why Sri Mudhra Arts
- Heritage: 4 generations of Tanjore craftsmanship, from our founder, Artist RK Shanmugam, carrying forward the legacy of Art Director Balu Bros.
- Our artist: our founder, Master Artist RK Shanmugam, has 50+ years of experience.
- Devotion in every piece: painted in the artist’s pooja room with dedication.
- A personal process: you speak to the artisans who create the painting, not a call centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does a custom Tanjore painting take?
It depends on the size and detail. It usually takes around 30 to 45 days. Please enquire early for special occasions. - Why is the painting made in a pooja room?
For us, painting a deity is an act of devotion. The artist works in the pooja room with prayer and dedication, and that is reflected in the finished piece. - Can I see the design before it is made?
Yes, we share a sketch for your approval before the painting begins. - Can I choose the size?
Yes. Send us your wall measurement or share a photo of the space, and we will suggest a size. - Do you deliver outside Chennai?
Yes, we deliver all over the world, by courier or white glove delivery. Please check our shipping policy for details. - Can I visit the studio?
Yes, you are welcome to visit by appointment. Please reach us at +91 8939757795. - How and when do I get a price?
Prices depend on size and detail. Share your requirement, and we will give you a clear quote once we finalise the scope.
Begin Your Commission
Tell us about the space, the subject and the occasion. We will guide you from there.
📞 Call or WhatsApp: +91 8939757795
🌐 srimudhraarts.com
📍 Sri Mudhra Arts, Chennai
For a private viewing, please call us to set up a time.
