Kerala's 2025: A Year of Shifts, Shocks, and Surprises

Legal and Political Turmoil

Sabarimala Gold Theft The year began with shockwaves as the Kerala High Court revealed the disappearance of gold from the sacred Dwarapalaka idols at Sabarimala, a revered pilgrimage site. Millions of Ayyappa devotees expressed outrage, raising concerns about temple security.
Political Shifts The Congress-led UDF made gains in local body polls, while the BJP achieved a historic victory by taking control of the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation after decades of Left dominance. The LDF, led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, acknowledged their setbacks but vowed to regroup for the 2026 Assembly elections.

Actress Assault Case Verdict The 2017 actress sexual assault case reached a turning point in 2025. Actor Dileep and three others were acquitted, while six others were convicted and sentenced to 20 years in prison. The verdict sparked division, with the state government planning to appeal the decision.

Oil Spill and Plastic Pellets In May, the cargo vessel MSC ELSA-3 sank off Alappuzha, causing an oil spill and littering beaches with plastic pellets. The environmental impact raised alarms across the state.
Container Ship Fire In June, a Singapore-flagged container ship caught fire near the Kerala coast, reigniting fears of another environmental disaster.

Passing of Legends Kerala bid farewell to two iconic figures in 2025. Former Chief Minister V. S. Achuthanandan, aged 101, left behind a legacy of integrity and social justice advocacy. The state also mourned the loss of cultural icon Sreenivasan, celebrated for his sharp satire and social commentary.

Mohanlal's Dadasaheb Phalke Award Superstar Mohanlal received the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023, adding to Kerala's cinematic pride.
Kerala Declared Free of Extreme Poverty Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan declared Kerala free of extreme poverty, a claim celebrated by supporters but met with skepticism by critics.