Tanjore Painting Class Fees: What Online, Studio and DIY Courses Cost
Y
Written by
Yashaswini Jaishankar
25 September 2026·5
Reviewed by Vibha Raj, Founder, Tanjore Collective
A clear guide to Tanjore painting class fees at our studio: DIY video, live online and studio courses, what each includes, and why larger deities take longer and cost more.
By Yashaswini Jaishankar, Head Teacher at Tanjore Collective. Yashaswini began as one of our students and now leads our classes.
Tanjore painting class fees at our studio run from about Rs 19,000 for a self-paced DIY video course, to about Rs 24,000 to Rs 29,000 for a 6.5 week live online course, and about Rs 28,000 to Rs 31,000 for the same length in our Bangalore studio. Larger and advanced deities, which take about 2.5 months, cost about Rs 41,000 to Rs 53,000. The fee moves with the format you choose and the deity you paint.
Fees are one of the first things people ask us, often a little shyly, as if it's rude to bring up money. It isn't. Learning Tanjore painting is a real commitment of time and money, and you deserve a clear picture before you start. This guide is about what learning costs. If you're comparing it with buying a painting, our full Tanjore painting cost guide puts the two side by side.
How much do Tanjore painting classes cost?
For a first painting, most of our students pay between about Rs 19,000 and Rs 31,000, depending on whether they learn by video, live online or in the studio. Advanced and larger paintings cost more because the course runs longer. Our material kit is Rs 4,000 if you need one.
Fees by format at a glance
Format
Typical fee
Duration
How it works
DIY video course
About Rs 19,000 to Rs 28,500
At your own pace
Pre-recorded lessons you follow on your schedule
Live online course
About Rs 24,000 to Rs 29,000
About 6.5 weeks
Twice weekly Zoom sessions with a master artist, recorded
Studio course (Bangalore)
About Rs 28,000 to Rs 31,000
About 6.5 weeks
In person at our Basavangudi studio
Larger and advanced deities
About Rs 41,000 to Rs 53,000
About 2.5 months
Online or studio, for pieces like Balaji or Padmavathi
Prices checked September 2026. Fees vary by deity and batch, so the course page always has the current figure.
A few examples
DIY video courses: Goddess Lakshmi about Rs 19,000, Goddess Saraswati about Rs 19,500, Lord Ganesha about Rs 22,500.
Live online, about 6.5 weeks: Lord Ganesha about Rs 25,500, Goddess Gaja Lakshmi about Rs 26,000 to Rs 27,000, Goddess Saraswati about Rs 28,000.
Studio, about 6.5 weeks: Lord Ganesha about Rs 28,000, Goddess Gajalakshmi about Rs 29,500, Goddess Saraswati about Rs 31,000.
Longer and advanced: Lord Balaji or Goddess Padmavati online over about 2.5 months, about Rs 44,000; Shiva Parivar advanced online, about Rs 52,000.
What your fee includes
Live online classes: twice weekly sessions over Zoom with a master artist. Every session is recorded and shared with you, and you keep access for up to one month after the course ends. You get a certificate of completion. The materials kit is optional and shipped to you by FedEx.
Studio classes: the traditional, hands-on way, learning in person at our studio in Basavangudi, Bangalore.
DIY video courses: self-paced, pre-recorded lessons, popular with our international students and anyone whose week is hard to predict.
In every format you learn the same techniques in the same order: board preparation, gesso relief, kundan stones, 24 karat gold foil, painting and, finally, the face. We teach from scratch, and you don't need to know how to draw, because our kits come pre-sketched.
Not sure which format suits you? Our online vs studio vs DIY classes comparison is about fit, not fees, and it'll help you choose.
Why some deities cost more to learn
It comes down to size and complexity. A Lord Ganesha is a popular first painting, and a standard course runs about 6.5 weeks. Larger, more elaborate subjects like Lord Balaji, Goddess Padmavathi or Shiva Parivar have more ornaments, more gesso relief and more gold, so the course runs longer, about 2.5 months, and the fee reflects those extra weeks with a master artist. Lakshmi Narasimha is taught as an advanced course for the same reason.
Watch our students' finished paintings
Our students with the paintings they made in class. Most of them had never painted before.
Is a class worth it compared to buying a painting?
In pure rupees, a first course plus a kit costs about the same as a small authentic painting. But the two aren't the same purchase. With a class, you finish with a painting you made yourself and the skill to make another. Many of our students come back for a second and third deity.
And there's the part that's hard to price. Our students are often working professionals, NRIs learning across time zones, and people starting in their 50s. Many of them describe the weeks at the board as meditative and calming. We've put the full make-it-yourself budget, including kit and framing, in the cost of making your own.
Frequently asked questions
How much is an online Tanjore painting course?
Our live online courses of about 6.5 weeks cost about Rs 24,000 to Rs 29,000, depending on the deity. Larger paintings over about 2.5 months cost about Rs 41,000 to Rs 53,000. Prices checked September 2026.
Are materials included in the class fee?
For live online classes, the materials kit is optional and shipped to you by FedEx. Our Essentials Material Kit costs Rs 4,000 on its own. Check the course page for exactly what's included in your batch.
Do I get a certificate?
Yes. Our live online courses come with a certificate of completion.
Is a DIY video course cheaper than live classes?
Usually, yes. Our DIY video courses start at about Rs 19,000, while live online courses start at about Rs 24,000. You trade live guidance for the freedom to learn at your own pace.
For the bigger picture, including what a painting costs to buy or commission, go back to our Tanjore painting cost guide.
Hear from students who've learned the art of Tanjore painting with us.
I consider Tanjore art is one of the difficult arts vibha made it easy to achieve that too through online. Her techniques are good and we were able to follow her on live sessions. I want to learn more Tanjore paintings with Tanjore collective.
Apoorva Y
Goddess Lakshmi
They have a beautiful studio, filled with their lovely Tanjore collections, which are outstanding. I never thought I would learn the art so quickly n easily. Vibha n team were very warm n patient in teaching me the art n painting. They actually instill so much confidence in you n make it look so easy for beginners, that it actually helps anyone learn it quickly. Their method of teaching, materials provided, training and facilities provided to learn are top notch.
Asha R
Lord Balaji
Creating my first Tanjore painting of Goddess Lakshmi Devi through Tanjore Collective's DIY course was a truly fulfilling experience. The course was very well structured, which made learning Tanjore painting much easier, even as a beginner. Vibha did a wonderful job explaining every intricate detail with clarity and patience. The step-by-step guidance helped me feel confident throughout the process, and seeing the final painting brought me immense happiness.
Sandhya D
Goddess Lakshmi
It was a wonderful experience to learn tanjore art from Tanjore collective. The whole journey was very inspiring, relaxing and interesting. Thank you Vibha and Yashaswini for being so patience in teaching each and every step of the process and making us so confident in completing the art with perfection.
Anupama
Lord Ganesha
Vibha taught us very well, asking us to try repeatedly until we got it right. Always having a smile on her face and clearing all our doubts. Had a great time learning from her and making new friends of like minded interest in art.
Raveen B
Lord Balaji
I had a wonderful time completing my Goddess Lakshmi painting. From preparing the Arabic gum and embossing, to applying the gold sheets, painting, and refining the details, Vibha provided clear and detailed guidance throughout the online course. This was my first experience with Tanjore art, and completing the painting over two months gave me a deep sense of accomplishment. The process brought me clarity and calm, and I now love seeing the finished artwork — it adds colour and vibrancy to my home.
Jenny K
Goddess Lakshmi
Tanjore painting is a beautiful and intricate art form, known for its rich colors, compact composition and surface richness, which makes it truly special. Creating my first Tanjore Painting of Lord Hanuman with Tanjore Collective Art Studio through their online classes was incredible.
Sushma S
Lord Hanuman
Tanjore collective is an experience. I enrolled for the Gajalakshmi studio course and this was my first ever attempt at Tanjore painting. Vibha, her mom and the entire team is amazing. They are very patient and make sure you learn at your pace. The studio environment is also so beautiful and makes the learning a meditative experience.
Kavitha S
Goddess Gajalakshmi
I joined Tanjore Collective's online DIY course this April. I had always wanted to learn this intricate art form but felt apprehensive, unsure if I could do it without proper guidance. The DIY course allows you to access the videos at your own pace, and the structure of the course is excellent. Vibha ji explains every step with great clarity, making it especially beginner-friendly. She truly made the entire process feel approachable and achievable.
Archana I
DIY Course
I had a wonderful experience being a part of the Saraswati Devi Tanjavur painting course. Vibha was extremely encouraging and gave detailed instructions at every stage of the painting, for each intricate pattern the painting required. I thoroughly enjoyed learning and painting in the classes and the outcome is beautiful!
Raksha P
Goddess Saraswati
I consider Tanjore art to be one of the more challenging art forms, but Vibha made it easy to learn — even through online classes. Her techniques are clear and effective, and we were able to follow along comfortably during the live sessions. I look forward to learning many more Tanjore paintings with Tanjore Collective.
Apoorva Y
DIY Course
I enrolled for online ganesha tanjore painting course with vibha. This is my first attempt at any form of painting so I was naturally doubtful if I could do this, but the way Vibha taught the process step by step without even realising i was able to see the Tanjore painting come to life by following the steps.
Priya S
Lord Ganesha
The Tanjore painting course, which I recently completed at Tanjore Collective, was a truly enriching experience. The course delved into the intricate techniques of this traditional art form, from preparing the canvas with gesso to mastering the delicate gold leaf application. The instructors were highly skilled, guiding us through each step with patience and expertise.
Padma K
Goddess Saraswathi
I took up the Gaja lakshmi course online. Initially I was quite sceptical as to how the online classes would be, as this art form is quite detailed and needs a lot of focus and attention. But at Tanjore Collective, Vibha and team have made it possible for everyone out there to easily learn and master the art form.
Sahana H
Lord Balaji
Enrolling in the online Tanjore painting classes was a truly transformative experience for me. The course struck a wonderful balance between traditional techniques and thoughtful modern teaching. I especially enjoyed learning the intricate designs, embossed muck work, the use of vibrant colours, and the application of gold foil — the hallmark of Tanjore painting. Vibha's step-by-step guidance allowed me to practice patiently and improve my skills with confidence.
Tarun K
DIY Course
Learning from Vibha was truly inspiring. Her patience and attention to detail made the entire process feel approachable.
Manasa C
Tanjore Painting
The way Vibha breaks down complex techniques into simple steps is remarkable. I never thought I could create something this beautiful.
Apoorva YM
Tanjore Painting
Vibha's teaching style is incredibly clear and supportive. She made sure every student felt confident at every stage.
Pulimivijayalakshmi R
Tanjore Painting
Every class with Vibha felt like a meditative experience. Her calm guidance and expertise made the journey truly special.
Vani R
Tanjore Painting
Vibha's encouragement and detailed feedback helped me grow so much as an artist. I'm grateful for the experience.
Vani P
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's warmth and patience made the learning experience truly enjoyable. She has a way of making complex techniques feel simple.
Meghana
Tanjore Painting
I loved how Spurthy encouraged us to explore and experiment while maintaining the traditional techniques. She's a wonderful teacher.
Akshatha
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's calm and encouraging teaching style helped me overcome my initial hesitation and truly enjoy the art of Tanjore painting.
Revathi
Tanjore Painting
Learning from Spurthy was a delightful experience. Her attention to detail and friendly approach made every session something to look forward to.
Sunitha
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's guidance was invaluable. She has an incredible ability to spot areas for improvement and offer constructive feedback with a smile.
Ritu
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's clarity in teaching complex techniques made my learning journey smooth and enjoyable. Her step-by-step approach gave me confidence.
Nithya
Tanjore Painting
I appreciated Yashaswini's patience and attention to detail. She ensured each student understood every step before moving forward.
Sushma
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's gentle corrections and encouraging words helped me improve tremendously. She has a real gift for teaching.
Anupama
Tanjore Painting
Learning from Yashaswini was a wonderful experience. Her calm demeanor and thorough explanations made the art form accessible.
Meghana
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's dedicated approach to teaching and her eye for detail made every class enriching. I'm grateful for her guidance.
Radha
Tanjore Painting
I consider Tanjore art is one of the difficult arts vibha made it easy to achieve that too through online. Her techniques are good and we were able to follow her on live sessions. I want to learn more Tanjore paintings with Tanjore collective.
Apoorva Y
Goddess Lakshmi
They have a beautiful studio, filled with their lovely Tanjore collections, which are outstanding. I never thought I would learn the art so quickly n easily. Vibha n team were very warm n patient in teaching me the art n painting. They actually instill so much confidence in you n make it look so easy for beginners, that it actually helps anyone learn it quickly. Their method of teaching, materials provided, training and facilities provided to learn are top notch.
Asha R
Lord Balaji
Creating my first Tanjore painting of Goddess Lakshmi Devi through Tanjore Collective's DIY course was a truly fulfilling experience. The course was very well structured, which made learning Tanjore painting much easier, even as a beginner. Vibha did a wonderful job explaining every intricate detail with clarity and patience. The step-by-step guidance helped me feel confident throughout the process, and seeing the final painting brought me immense happiness.
Sandhya D
Goddess Lakshmi
It was a wonderful experience to learn tanjore art from Tanjore collective. The whole journey was very inspiring, relaxing and interesting. Thank you Vibha and Yashaswini for being so patience in teaching each and every step of the process and making us so confident in completing the art with perfection.
Anupama
Lord Ganesha
Vibha taught us very well, asking us to try repeatedly until we got it right. Always having a smile on her face and clearing all our doubts. Had a great time learning from her and making new friends of like minded interest in art.
Raveen B
Lord Balaji
I had a wonderful time completing my Goddess Lakshmi painting. From preparing the Arabic gum and embossing, to applying the gold sheets, painting, and refining the details, Vibha provided clear and detailed guidance throughout the online course. This was my first experience with Tanjore art, and completing the painting over two months gave me a deep sense of accomplishment. The process brought me clarity and calm, and I now love seeing the finished artwork — it adds colour and vibrancy to my home.
Jenny K
Goddess Lakshmi
Tanjore painting is a beautiful and intricate art form, known for its rich colors, compact composition and surface richness, which makes it truly special. Creating my first Tanjore Painting of Lord Hanuman with Tanjore Collective Art Studio through their online classes was incredible.
Sushma S
Lord Hanuman
Tanjore collective is an experience. I enrolled for the Gajalakshmi studio course and this was my first ever attempt at Tanjore painting. Vibha, her mom and the entire team is amazing. They are very patient and make sure you learn at your pace. The studio environment is also so beautiful and makes the learning a meditative experience.
Kavitha S
Goddess Gajalakshmi
I joined Tanjore Collective's online DIY course this April. I had always wanted to learn this intricate art form but felt apprehensive, unsure if I could do it without proper guidance. The DIY course allows you to access the videos at your own pace, and the structure of the course is excellent. Vibha ji explains every step with great clarity, making it especially beginner-friendly. She truly made the entire process feel approachable and achievable.
Archana I
DIY Course
I had a wonderful experience being a part of the Saraswati Devi Tanjavur painting course. Vibha was extremely encouraging and gave detailed instructions at every stage of the painting, for each intricate pattern the painting required. I thoroughly enjoyed learning and painting in the classes and the outcome is beautiful!
Raksha P
Goddess Saraswati
I consider Tanjore art to be one of the more challenging art forms, but Vibha made it easy to learn — even through online classes. Her techniques are clear and effective, and we were able to follow along comfortably during the live sessions. I look forward to learning many more Tanjore paintings with Tanjore Collective.
Apoorva Y
DIY Course
I enrolled for online ganesha tanjore painting course with vibha. This is my first attempt at any form of painting so I was naturally doubtful if I could do this, but the way Vibha taught the process step by step without even realising i was able to see the Tanjore painting come to life by following the steps.
Priya S
Lord Ganesha
The Tanjore painting course, which I recently completed at Tanjore Collective, was a truly enriching experience. The course delved into the intricate techniques of this traditional art form, from preparing the canvas with gesso to mastering the delicate gold leaf application. The instructors were highly skilled, guiding us through each step with patience and expertise.
Padma K
Goddess Saraswathi
I took up the Gaja lakshmi course online. Initially I was quite sceptical as to how the online classes would be, as this art form is quite detailed and needs a lot of focus and attention. But at Tanjore Collective, Vibha and team have made it possible for everyone out there to easily learn and master the art form.
Sahana H
Lord Balaji
Enrolling in the online Tanjore painting classes was a truly transformative experience for me. The course struck a wonderful balance between traditional techniques and thoughtful modern teaching. I especially enjoyed learning the intricate designs, embossed muck work, the use of vibrant colours, and the application of gold foil — the hallmark of Tanjore painting. Vibha's step-by-step guidance allowed me to practice patiently and improve my skills with confidence.
Tarun K
DIY Course
Learning from Vibha was truly inspiring. Her patience and attention to detail made the entire process feel approachable.
Manasa C
Tanjore Painting
The way Vibha breaks down complex techniques into simple steps is remarkable. I never thought I could create something this beautiful.
Apoorva YM
Tanjore Painting
Vibha's teaching style is incredibly clear and supportive. She made sure every student felt confident at every stage.
Pulimivijayalakshmi R
Tanjore Painting
Every class with Vibha felt like a meditative experience. Her calm guidance and expertise made the journey truly special.
Vani R
Tanjore Painting
Vibha's encouragement and detailed feedback helped me grow so much as an artist. I'm grateful for the experience.
Vani P
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's warmth and patience made the learning experience truly enjoyable. She has a way of making complex techniques feel simple.
Meghana
Tanjore Painting
I loved how Spurthy encouraged us to explore and experiment while maintaining the traditional techniques. She's a wonderful teacher.
Akshatha
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's calm and encouraging teaching style helped me overcome my initial hesitation and truly enjoy the art of Tanjore painting.
Revathi
Tanjore Painting
Learning from Spurthy was a delightful experience. Her attention to detail and friendly approach made every session something to look forward to.
Sunitha
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's guidance was invaluable. She has an incredible ability to spot areas for improvement and offer constructive feedback with a smile.
Ritu
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's clarity in teaching complex techniques made my learning journey smooth and enjoyable. Her step-by-step approach gave me confidence.
Nithya
Tanjore Painting
I appreciated Yashaswini's patience and attention to detail. She ensured each student understood every step before moving forward.
Sushma
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's gentle corrections and encouraging words helped me improve tremendously. She has a real gift for teaching.
Anupama
Tanjore Painting
Learning from Yashaswini was a wonderful experience. Her calm demeanor and thorough explanations made the art form accessible.
Meghana
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's dedicated approach to teaching and her eye for detail made every class enriching. I'm grateful for her guidance.
