Art has long been viewed as a luxury reserved for the affluent, intellectual and elite sections of the society. Raja Ravi Varma, a renowned artist from the 19th century, stood as a testament against this notion. Today, his works grace contemporary art galleries and homes nationwide, appreciated by both enthusiasts of his works and those who might not even realise the idyllic paintings hanging on their walls trace their origins back to the renowned royalty of Travancore.