Mollywood, Kerala’s beloved movie enterprise, is converting fast. The golden days of superstars like Mohanlal and Mammootty nonetheless shine; however, there's something else stirring—young blood, sparkling faces, and new testimonies.
The younger era of actors isn't always just getting into the frame; they’re proudly owning it, redefining what Malayalam cinema looks like nowadays. What’s more surprising? These new skills aren’t simply showing up in random roles—they’re wearing films, bringing in box-office numbers, and collecting awards.
It's no longer about being famous in a single day. Those younger stars have grit. They’re getting to know the craft, experimenting with indie movies, web series, or even musical dramas. They’re no longer watching for legacy; they’re creating their very own. From faculty-going debutantes to actors nonetheless balancing university and sets, those fresh faces come with relatable attraction.
Kerala’s audience, known for its vital eye, seems to be embracing this change with open arms. So, who are those growing stars? And what else makes them stand out in a cinema culture that worships overall performance specifically? Let’s take a deep dive into 5 of the youngest sensations currently rocking Mollywood.
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1. Arjun Ashokan: The Relatable Rise Up
You would possibly take into account Arjun Ashokan from movies like June, Theeppori Benny, or Romancham. What’s loopy is—he never performs the typical “hero.” He’s awkward and, now and again, naive, even mistaken.
But that’s what people appear to like about him. He’s actual. No longer the overly polished, dancing-on-mountains sort of famous person. Greater, just like the man next door who makes you tear up or snicker hysterically without even trying. Son of actor Harisree Ashokan, Arjun in no way trusted his heritage.
As a substitute, he carved out roles in movies where emotional depth and ease were more vital than glam. He’s been picking offbeat scripts, operating with new-age administrators, and taking roles others may have handed. That chance? Operating. In a kingdom that praises individual improvement and substance, Arjun has come to be a call that moviegoers agree with. At simply 30, he’s already got a mini cult following.
2. Anaswara Rajan: Bright Eyes, Ambitious Picks
There’s something approximately Anaswara Rajan that attracts you. Maybe it’s her expressive eyes or her no-nonsense mindset on screen. Because she starred in Thanneer Mathan Dinangal, people knew she wasn’t here to play safe. Her roles in films like Extremely Good Sharanya and Mike display simply how formidable she is with her script selections.
From teenage angst to gender identification, she’s unafraid to discover layered characters. And audiences love her for that. She’s that uncommon combination: sparkling-faced attraction combined with fearless-appearing chops.
She additionally connects nicely with the younger generation. Whether it’s social media presence or relatable roles, Anaswara speaks their language—loud, clear, and unfiltered. That makes her one of the most promising faces in Mollywood these days.
3: Mathew Thomas: The Silent Storm
Don’t let his quiet presence fool you, idiot. Mathew Thomas won't be as flashy or dramatic as others; however, boy, can he act. Simply watch him in Kumbalangi Nights or Thanneer Mathan Dinangal, and you’ll see what we mean. He does not overact. He doesn't try too hard.
That’s his magic. His expressions do the talking. His roles frequently carry a mixture of sensitivity and stillness, like a slow river that knows where it’s going. Even critics, who hardly ever reward rookies, have taken notice.
He is nonetheless in his early 1920s but already choosing scripts that would be counted. No longer only for industrial advantage, however, for telling memories that have an effect. Mathew represents that phase of recent actors who pick art over noise.
4. Devika Sanjay: Clean Face with a Punch
She appeared briefly in Niranjan Prakashan, but it was enough. Devika Sanjay brought with her a vibe that Mollywood has become looking forward to. She’s joyful, assured, and quick with her communication transport. Her current performances in Makal and different indie tasks have made human beings take notice.
What’s outstanding is that she brings in a relatable power to her roles, like someone you’ve certainly met. There is nothing plastic or 'too polished' about her. She reminds you of that opinionated college senior or bold, more youthful sister who speaks her thoughts.
Devika doesn’t try to steal the limelight, yet somehow she ends up turning into the soul of the movie. That stability is difficult to find, in particular in young actors. She’s sincerely a celebrity in the making, just looking ahead to the proper script to blow up on screen.
5. Niranj Maniyanpilla Raju: Legacy Meets New-Age Grit
Being the son of Maniyanpilla Raju might have been both a blessing and a burden. However, Niranjan is making it paintings. He’s experimenting with scripts that are a ways removed from his father’s technology, experimenting with city thrillers and darkish comedies.
His performances in films like Black Espresso and other lesser-recognized titles display that he’s no longer terrified of gradual burns. Even though he is yet to seize a blockbuster solo hit, what’s commendable is his perseverance.
He’s enhancing every function and is working with administrators recognized for pushing barriers. Niranj might not be topping charts yet; however, among most of the movie crowd in Kerala, he’s got extreme buzz. In a few more years, he might be one of the most reliable names in experimental Malayalam cinema.
The Destiny Is Already Here
The youngest stars in Mollywood aren’t just actors—they’re storytellers. They’re now not expecting the industry to hand them ideal scripts or dreamy debuts. They’re hustling, experimenting, and learning rapidly. And the target market?
They’re responding with love, applause, and packed theaters. In a time in which most film industries are reeling underneath the weight of remakes and formulaic plots, Mollywood is taking risks, in large part due to those younger abilities.
They create authenticity, curiosity, and courage. And most importantly, they’re making Malayalam cinema relatable for a whole new generation. So, even as we retain the legends of the past, it’s time we look in advance. Because the destiny of Mollywood isn’t coming—it’s already on display.
