Dr. Saju Thuruthil: The Master Muralist of Modern India

Dr. Saju Thuruthil: The Master Muralist of Modern India

By Author

Published on June 12, 2025

In the quiet village of Kalady, Kerala, resides Dr. Saju Thuruthil—one of India’s most revered mural artists, who has spent over 35 years redefining Kerala’s traditional art form. While he stays away from the mainstream art market, his influence resonates globally, with over 2,000 artworks in private collections across 38 countries. His murals grace every airport in Kerala, blending heritage with modern public spaces.

A Life Dedicated to Mural Art

Dr. Thuruthil holds India’s first Ph.D. in mural painting, has authored a textbook on the subject, and has led the Mural Painting Department at Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit, Kalady, for 27 years. As Director of the Kerala Mural Heritage Conservation Centre, he has restored ancient murals in over a dozen temples, including the famed Padmanabhaswamy Temple. He has received numerous national and state awards and fellowships.

Almost three decades ago, he turned his home into Kerala’s first residential art gallery—an act of devotion that brought mural art closer to people, making it both personal and accessible.

Reimagining the Mural Form

Though rooted in traditional temple art, Dr. Thuruthil revolutionized the mural format by adapting it to canvas. This evolution expanded its reach into hotels, airports, corporate spaces, and homes, while his themes began to reflect deeper emotional and social undertones.

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Iconic Series and Signature Works

His most acclaimed works include:

  • "Chayamukhi": A series of over 500 pieces exploring nostalgia, femininity, and longing—collected by names like the Tata Group, Union Bank, and TVS.
  • "Sri Chakra Kundalini": A spiritual series inspired by tantric philosophy and Kerala’s color traditions.
  • "Lady with Bird": 250 charcoal works with poetic stillness, often adorning hotel suites.
  • "Yakshi": A visual ode to feminine divinity in 85 expressive paintings.
  • "Vastraapaharanam": A 6x4 ft reimagining of Krishna and the gopis, focused on purity and beauty.
  • "Three Girls": A tender portrayal of childhood, beloved for its emotional intimacy.
  • "Radhika": A 12x4 ft mural capturing Radha’s longing, housed in Hotel Royal Resoi, Mumbai.

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Monumental Projects and Conservation

Dr. Saju’s commitment extends beyond canvas. He led the restoration of several historic temples and completed massive mural works, including:

  • A 140-ft-long mural narrating the Mughal dynasty
  • A 140-ft Ramayana mural in Kerala style
  • The world’s largest Vishnumurti Theyyam mural (5,000+ sq. ft) at Kannur International Airport
  • A 70-ft mural at Cochin Airport portraying Kerala’s cultural richness

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A Living Legacy

With nearly 2,000 students trained, Dr. Thuruthil’s legacy is not just in his art but in his role as a mentor and movement leader. His works echo a timeless beauty—free from protest or anger, filled instead with grace, love, and reflection.

In a world rushing forward, Dr. Saju stands still—his brush rooted in tradition, his vision forever evolving. Through his silent dedication, he has given mural art a powerful voice, ensuring that Kerala’s visual heritage continues to thrive on a global canvas.

For collaborations or inquiries, please feel free to get in touch via www.sajuthuruthil.com.


Prashanth Kuchimanchi Appointed General Manager at Four Points by Sheraton Mahabalipuram Resort and Convention Centre

Prashanth Kuchimanchi Appointed General Manager at Four Points by Sheraton Mahabalipuram Resort and Convention Centre

By Author

Published on November 3, 2025

Prashanth Kuchimanchi has been appointed as the General Manager of Four Points by Sheraton Mahabalipuram Resort and Convention Centre, effective November 1, 2025.

With over two decades of extensive experience in hospitality, Prashanth brings a wealth of expertise in hotel operations, events and convention management, guest experience, and revenue optimization. Known for his strategic leadership and commitment to operational excellence, he has consistently driven growth and delivered memorable guest experiences throughout his career.

In his most recent role at The Leela Gandhinagar & Mahatma Mandir Convention & Exhibition Centre, Prashanth led operations for a large-scale luxury hotel and convention environment. During his tenure with The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, he was instrumental in elevating service standards, guest satisfaction, and premium dining experiences across a complex property that included convention facilities and multiple F&B outlets.

A family-oriented individual, Prashanth is married to Niharika and they have two daughters, Nitya Stuti and Sveshta Udita. Outside of work, he is known for his warm personality, love for travel and food, and looks forward to exploring the cultural heritage of Mahabalipuram with his family.

His appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Four Points by Sheraton Mahabalipuram Resort and Convention Centre as it continues to strengthen its leadership and guest experience under his guidance.


Supriyo Dhali Appointed General Manager of Fortune Select Siliguri

Supriyo Dhali Appointed General Manager of Fortune Select Siliguri

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 2, 2025

Fortune Hotels, a member of the ITC Hotels Group, has announced the appointment of Supriyo Dhali as the General Manager of Fortune Select Siliguri.

An accomplished hotelier with over 25 years of experience, Dhali brings a strong record of success in hotel operations, guest engagement, and brand-led service excellence. In his new role, he will oversee the hotel’s overall functioning with a focus on enhancing the guest experience and strengthening the brand’s presence in the region.

Throughout his career, Dhali has held leadership positions across leading hospitality brands, including Sterling Holidays, Lemon Tree Hotels, Club Mahindra, Park Inn by Radisson, Taj Hotels, and ITC Hotels.

Before joining Fortune Select Siliguri, he served as General Manager at Sterling Aravalli, Udaipur, where he successfully led a 70-key upscale resort with multiple banquet venues, driving both guest satisfaction and operational performance.

Known for his disciplined leadership, people-first approach, and commitment to creating memorable guest experiences, Dhali is set to play a key role in driving the continued growth and service excellence of Fortune Select Siliguri, the company said in a release.


The Leela Gandhinagar Appoints Abhesek Roy as Sous Chef

The Leela Gandhinagar Appoints Abhesek Roy as Sous Chef

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 2, 2025

The Leela Gandhinagar, a beacon of luxury hospitality in the twin cities of Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, has announced the appointment of Chef Abhesek Roy as its new Sous Chef.

With an illustrious career spanning over 15 years, Chef Abhesek brings a wealth of experience, culinary creativity, and technical expertise to his new role. His professional journey includes associations with some of India’s most prestigious hospitality brands such as The Leela Palace Bengaluru, The Leela Mumbai, The Lalit Mumbai, Hilton Shillim, and The Willingdon Sports Club.

Commenting on the appointment, Vikas Sood, General Manager of The Leela Gandhinagar, said,

“We are delighted to welcome Chef Abhesek Roy to The Leela Gandhinagar. His extensive experience across leading hospitality establishments, coupled with his creativity and commitment to quality, will further strengthen our culinary offerings and delight our guests with exceptional dining experiences.”

Chef Abhesek holds a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management from the Global Institute of Management, Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition (GIMS), Mumbai. His career reflects consistent growth across diverse leadership roles, from Demi Chef de Partie to Pre-opening Sous Chef and Brand Chef, each role sharpening his expertise in kitchen management and menu innovation.

At The Leela Gandhinagar, Chef Abhesek will oversee kitchen operations, drive culinary innovation, and curate refined dining experiences that reflect the brand’s signature elegance and authenticity.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Chef Abhesek Roy shared,

“Joining The Leela Gandhinagar is both an honour and an exciting opportunity. I look forward to crafting memorable gastronomic journeys for our guests, showcasing innovative techniques while celebrating the rich culture and culinary heritage of India.”

With Chef Abhesek’s appointment, The Leela Gandhinagar continues to reinforce its commitment to elevating the culinary landscape through exceptional talent and craftsmanship.

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