Kerala, which is known for its rich culture and progressive mindset, is still home to the leaders who shape politics, business, cinema, literature, sports, and social service. In 2025, we saw across the board individuals who really made an impact and left their mark on society. Below is a list of the Top 20 Most Influential People of 2025 in Kerala, which also includes their achievements and the roles they played in the present and future of the state.
1. Pinarayi Vijayan
The Chief Minister is at the helm of affairs in Kerala’s political stage. His style of governance, welfare programs, and being very much in control of development projects, which is what keeps him in the top rank of state leaders.
2. Shashi Tharoor
A world-renowned politician and writer, Tharoor is a figure who is well respected in both national and international settings. His rhetoric and vision for Kerala endear him to many.
3. Veena Vijayan
As an entrepreneur at Exalogic Solutions, Veena is a part of the new generation of businesswomen in Kerala. She puts forth technology-based solutions, which in turn add to the state’s IT image.
4. Arif Mohammed Khan
The Governor of Kerala, known for putting forward bold views and also for his profound intellect, is still a strong voice in public discourse.
5. Mammootty
At 70, the great actor is still very much relevant in Malayali cinema through his powerful performances and social work.
6. Mohanlal
Mahanthaya of Kerala, Mohanlal is an actor indeed, also a brand ambassador for his state’s cinema on the world stage. He continues to be a source of inspiration to many.
7. Priyanca Radhakrishnan
New Zealand’s Minister of Community and Voluntary Sector, who is from Kerala, has become a source of inspiration for Malayalis all over the world.
8. Dr. Shailaja (K.K. Shailaja) Teacher.
Known for her role in leading through the pandemic, she is still a force in health care policy and women’s politics.
9. Hanumankind (Sooraj Cherukat)
From a town in Kerala, this rapper made it big in the world. His sound is taking Kerala to international hip hop stages. Also, his music speaks to youth in India and beyond.
10. Riyas Komu
An acclaimed figure in the art and culture scene, Riyas Komu brought to the fore Kerala’s presence at the global stage via the Kochi Muziris Biennale.
11. Mithali Rajan
Kochi is a social entrepreneur who, in 2025, saw great success in her work with sustainable tourism and women’s empowerment.
12. Riyas Salim
The social media star and LGBTQ+ activist still uses digital platforms to put forth issues of stereotypes and inclusion.
13. Sanju Samson
The sports personality of Kerala and captain of Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, which is a source of inspiration to millions of sports fans, also represents the growth of sports culture in that state.
14. Manju Warrier
The actress, who is also a social activist, is a role model for women in Kerala, which she does through her film work and philanthropic efforts.
15. Sreenath Bhasi
A major force in Malayalam cinema, Sreenath is at the vanguard of today’s narrative movements, which impact film culture.
16. K.S. Chithra
In South India, we have what is known as the Nightingale of the region, who for decades has been at the forefront of Kerala’s cultural scene through her classic songs.
17. Vineeth Sreenivasan
A versatile artist in film, theater, and music, which also includes singing, Vineeth is the doyen of the new age Malayalam cinema.
18. Rima Kallingal
The actress and dancer is a voice for women’s issues and independent film, which in turn inspires younger generations to think beyond what is presented to them.
19. E. Sreedharan
Also known as the “Metro Man,” his vision for and input into infrastructure development is still very much an inspiration to young engineers and policymakers.
20. Gopi Sundar
The musician from Kerala has put out a wide range of musical styles, which have, in turn, taken him global, thus securing his place as a cultural powerhouse in his state.
Conclusion
Kerala in 2025 is a far more extensive player than we think. We see the state’s reach in politics and cinema for what it is, but in many other fields, its impact is huge. From leaders and thinkers to entrepreneurs, activists, and artists, they all have left their mark, which in turn has shaped not just our state but also has had an impact on India and the world. We see in this list the range of talent and thought that Kerala has to offer, from the likes of established stars Mahesh Babu and Saritha to the new-age influencers like Hanumankind and Riyas Salim. What the state can produce year after year is what continues to make Kerala a light house of progress, culture, and inspiration.
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