Top 10 richest person in Kerala (2025) reflects the state’s unique wealth story — from Gulf-return entrepreneurs and spice traders to IT, retail, and jewelry empires. Kerala’s billionaires are rooted in tradition but scaled into global success.
From Yusuff Ali’s Lulu Group to M.A. Yusuff Ali’s retail empire, Joy Alukkas in jewelry, and KS Sudarshan’s IT ventures, the state’s fortunes stretch from Kochi to Dubai. Combined, these fortunes cross ₹2.5 lakh crore, proving Kerala’s economy goes beyond remittances — it’s an engine of global business.
By Deepak Singh, Founder — The DM School (Google Partner; 1 Lakh+ students trained). This guide gives you the most accurate India-first look at the richest people in Kerala shaping industries, jobs, and investments.
Top 10 Richest People in Kerala (2025):
- M.A. Yusuff Ali (Lulu Group) – ₹1.3 Lakh Cr ($16B)
- Shamsheer Vayalil (Healthcare) – ₹50,000 Cr ($6B)
- Ravi Pillai (RP Group) – ₹45,000 Cr ($5.5B)
- Joy Alukkas (Jewelry) – ₹42,000 Cr ($5B)
- Sunny Varkey (Education) – ₹40,000 Cr ($4.8B)
- Azad Moopen (Aster Healthcare) – ₹25,000 Cr ($3B)
- Gokulam Gopalan (Finance & Hospitality) – ₹18,000 Cr ($2.2B)
- Farook Kassim (Shipping & Trading) – ₹15,000 Cr ($1.8B)
- Cheruvathur Family (Textiles & Retail) – ₹12,000 Cr ($1.5B)
- Elite Group (Food & Retail) – ₹10,000 Cr ($1.2B)
M.A. Yusuff Ali – Lulu Group International
M.A. Yusuff Ali, originally from Thrissur, Kerala, built the Lulu Group International into one of the world’s largest retail and hypermarket chains. With headquarters in Abu Dhabi and massive operations in the Gulf and India, his influence extends far beyond Kerala’s borders.
Net Worth Snapshot:
- Total wealth: ₹1.3 lakh crore ($16B) in 2025.
- Ranked among the richest Indians globally.
- Wealth primarily from retail, shopping malls, logistics, and hospitality.
Business Empire:
- Lulu Hypermarkets: 250+ stores across GCC, India, and Asia.
- Shopping Malls: Lulu Mall Kochi, Lucknow, and expansions in South India.
- Hospitality: Investments in hotels and resorts, including in Kerala.
- Logistics & Food Processing: Major presence in exports and distribution.
Lifestyle & Family:
- Based in Abu Dhabi but frequently visits Kerala.
- Known for philanthropy, cultural patronage, and strong NRI network.
Philanthropy in Kerala:
- Funds schools, colleges, and hospitals in Kerala.
- Contributed massively during Kerala floods and COVID-19 crisis.
- Supports entrepreneurship and skill development programs.
Summary: M.A. Yusuff Ali, Kerala’s richest person in 2025, turned Lulu Group into a global retail empire while maintaining deep philanthropic ties to his home state.
Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil – Healthcare Tycoon
Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil built his healthcare empire from Kerala, expanding into the UAE and India. His group operates multi-specialty hospitals, diagnostic chains, and medical education institutions. His reach and growth place him among India’s top healthcare billionaires.
Net Worth Snapshot:
- Estimated wealth: ₹50,000 crore ($6B) in 2025.
- Strong profits from hospital operations and diagnostics.
- Global patient base and medical tourism boost value.
Business Empire:
- Hospital Network: Major multi-specialty hospitals in UAE, India.
- Diagnostics & Labs: Chain of labs for pathology and imaging.
- Medical Education & Research: Institutions affiliated with medical colleges.
Lifestyle & Family:
- Resides between UAE and Kerala.
- Family is involved in both business strategy and social efforts.
Philanthropy in Kerala:
- Supports healthcare in remote areas, free clinics, mobile medical camps across Kerala.
- Funds scholarships for medical students and research in Kerala.
Summary: Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil turned V-Healthcare into a cross-border healthcare powerhouse. For broader billionaire rankings and comparisons, see Top 10 Richest Person in India.
Ravi Pillai – RP Group of Companies
B. Ravi Pillai, from Kollam, Kerala, migrated to the Middle East in the 1970s and created the RP Group of Companies. His empire spans construction, energy, hospitality, and retail, with a workforce of over 70,000 employees worldwide.
Net Worth Snapshot:
- Estimated wealth: ₹45,000 crore ($5.5B) in 2025.
- One of the wealthiest Indian expatriates in the Gulf.
- Core wealth from construction projects in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar.
Business Empire:
- RP Group: Infrastructure, oilfield services, and industrial contracting.
- Hospitality: Luxury hotels in Kerala and the Middle East.
- Retail & Education: Expanding into new consumer businesses.
Lifestyle & Family:
- Based between Dubai and Kollam, Kerala.
- Family involved in education, culture, and philanthropy.
Philanthropy in Kerala:
- Funded housing projects for the poor in Kerala.
- Supports schools, medical colleges, and job training centers.
- Major donor during Kerala floods and disaster relief programs.
Summary: Ravi Pillai, through RP Group, represents Kerala’s Gulf success story — building global wealth while investing heavily back into his home state.
Joy Alukkas – Jewelry Empire
Joy Alukkas grew his family’s jewellery business from Thrissur to become a global brand. With extensive stores in GCC and India, his empire is known for gold jewellery, diamonds, and trust in craftsmanship.
Net Worth Snapshot:
- Estimated wealth: ₹42,000 crore ($5B) in 2025.
- Revenue boosted by exports to Middle East and Indian diaspora demand.
- Brand growth through retail expansion and digital presence.
Business Empire:
- Jewellery Retail: Over 150 outlets in India & GCC.
- Gold & Diamond Trading: Known for craftsmanship and reliability.
- Online & Partnerships: E-commerce platforms serving diaspora customers.
Lifestyle & Family:
- Based in Kerala but globally connected.
- Family involvement across operations, design, retail strategy.
Philanthropy in Kerala:
- Supports educational trusts, arts, temples, community health.
- Active giving during festivals and for diaspora welfare.
Summary: Joy Alukkas turned gold & jewellery into a global brand. For how Kerala’s richest compare globally, see Top 10 Richest People in Asia.
Sunny Varkey – Education Ventures
Sunny Varkey, born in Kerala and raised in Dubai, expanded his parents’ small school into GEMS Education, the world’s largest private school operator. His ventures combine premium schooling, international curriculum, and education technology.
Net Worth Snapshot:
- Estimated wealth: ₹40,000 crore ($4.8B) in 2025.
- Founder of GEMS Education with 60+ years of legacy.
- Influential in both UAE and Kerala diaspora circles.
Business Empire:
- GEMS Education: 60+ schools in UAE and 10+ countries.
- EdTech & Training: Investments in teacher training and digital platforms.
- Philanthropy: Varkey Foundation supports UN’s education initiatives.
Lifestyle & Family:
- Lives in Dubai but frequently visits Kerala.
- Family is engaged in philanthropy and business expansions.
Philanthropy in Kerala:
- Funds schools, teacher programs, and scholarships for Kerala students.
- Supports cultural programs and diaspora-led initiatives in Kerala.
Summary: Sunny Varkey transformed Kerala diaspora roots into a global education empire. For state-wise wealth comparisons, also see Top 10 Richest People in Rajasthan.
Dr. Azad Moopen – Aster Healthcare
Dr. Azad Moopen scaled Aster from a single clinic in Kerala to a network of hospitals and clinics across the Middle East, India, and the Philippines. His business footprint includes primary, secondary, and tertiary care hospitals with strong service reputation.
Net Worth Snapshot:
- Estimated wealth: ₹25,000 crore ($3B) in 2025.
- Revenue from hospital operations, diagnostics, and wellness centers.
- Strong presence in the GCC healthcare market and in India.
Business Empire:
- Aster Hospitals & Clinics: Multispecialty hospitals in UAE, India & Philippines.
- Diagnostics & Labs: High-standard pathology and imaging services.
- Wellness & Education: Initiatives in nursing colleges and preventive healthcare.
Lifestyle & Family:
- Strong ties to Kerala though major operations are overseas.
- Family involved in healthcare governance and philanthropic outreach.
Philanthropy in Kerala:
- Runs free clinics and rural healthcare camps in Kerala.
- Scholarships for medical students & donations during crises like floods.
Summary: Dr. Azad Moopen built a healthcare network spanning continents from Kerala. For wealth comparisons with other states, also see Top 10 Richest Person in Uttar Pradesh.
Gokulam Gopalan – Finance & Hospitality
Gokulam Gopalan, based in Chennai with roots in Kerala, created the Sree Gokulam Group, known for chit funds, finance, hotels, and healthcare. His businesses employ thousands and have a large customer base across South India.
Net Worth Snapshot:
- Estimated wealth: ₹18,000 crore ($2.2B) in 2025.
- Strong profits from chit funds and financial services.
- Expansion into hospitality, education, and healthcare.
Business Empire:
- Sree Gokulam Chit & Finance: One of South India’s largest chit fund networks.
- Hospitality: Chain of Gokulam hotels and resorts in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
- Healthcare: Gokulam hospitals providing affordable medical care.
- Education: Schools and colleges under Gokulam banner.
Lifestyle & Family:
- Known as both a businessman and film producer in Malayalam cinema.
- Family is actively involved in group operations and philanthropy.
Philanthropy in Kerala:
- Funds schools and hospitals for underprivileged communities.
- Supports cultural programs and traditional art forms.
Summary: Gokulam Gopalan transformed chit funds into a diversified empire across finance, hotels, and healthcare. For state-wise billionaire comparisons, see Top 10 Richest Person in Gujarat.
Farook Kassim – Shipping & Trading
Farook Kassim hails from Kozhikode and made his fortune in the Middle East. His empire includes large-scale shipping operations, oil tankers, and international trade, making him a key player in Kerala’s NRI wealth story.
Net Worth Snapshot:
- Estimated wealth: ₹15,000 crore ($1.8B) in 2025.
- Major earnings from shipping and global commodities trade.
- Investments spread across logistics, warehousing, and energy.
Business Empire:
- Shipping Fleet: Oil tankers, bulk carriers, and logistics chains.
- Trading: Petroleum, commodities, and agricultural products.
- Logistics: Warehousing and supply chain hubs in Gulf and India.
Lifestyle & Family:
- Based in Dubai, with frequent connections to Kerala.
- Family plays a role in trading and philanthropy networks.
Philanthropy in Kerala:
- Supports healthcare projects and housing for poor families.
- Invests in education and scholarships for Kozhikode students.
Summary: Farook Kassim built global shipping and trading wealth while maintaining strong ties to Kerala. His journey reflects the power of Gulf-based Malayali entrepreneurs.
Cheruvathur Family – Textiles & Retail
The Cheruvathur family are among Kerala’s most influential business dynasties, with strong presence in textiles and apparel retail. Their chain of stores and manufacturing units supplies both domestic and international markets, making them household names in Kerala’s commercial hubs.
Net Worth Snapshot:
- Estimated wealth: ₹12,000 crore ($1.5B) in 2025.
- Revenue largely from retail chains and textile exports.
- Significant employer across Kerala in textile manufacturing.
Business Empire:
- Retail Chains: Leading textile showrooms and malls across Kerala.
- Export Units: Supplying fabrics and apparel to Middle East & Europe.
- Diversification: Expanding into real estate and education.
Lifestyle & Family:
- Based in Thrissur and Kochi, Kerala’s textile hubs.
- Generational family leadership, with younger members taking global roles.
Philanthropy in Kerala:
- Support for local temples, schools, and community programs.
- Funds cultural festivals and heritage events in Kerala.
Summary: The Cheruvathur Family turned textiles and retail into a billion-dollar business, cementing their place among Kerala’s top richest in 2025.
Elite Group – Food & Retail
The Elite Group, based in Kerala, grew from a small bakery into one of India’s leading packaged food brands. With retail outlets, export operations, and large bakeries, the group has become a household name across Kerala and abroad.
Net Worth Snapshot:
- Estimated wealth: ₹10,000 crore ($1.2B) in 2025.
- Revenue from packaged foods, bakery chains, and exports.
- Growing footprint in GCC and other international markets.
Business Empire:
- Elite Foods: Packaged cakes, breads, and FMCG products.
- Retail Outlets: Bakery and supermarket chains in Kerala.
- Exports: Distribution in Middle East, UK, and US markets.
Lifestyle & Family:
- Headquartered in Kerala with strong Gulf presence.
- Family-led management expanding into global FMCG.
Philanthropy in Kerala:
- Supports local schools, orphanages, and healthcare programs.
- Provides employment to thousands across Kerala.
Summary: The Elite Group turned bakery success into a billion-dollar FMCG empire, making it one of Kerala’s richest business houses in 2025.
Comparison Table – Top 10 Richest People in Kerala 2025
This table compares Kerala’s wealthiest by net worth, industries, and global influence in 2025.
| Name / Family | Net Worth (₹) | Net Worth ($) | Industry | City / Roots |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M.A. Yusuff Ali | ₹1.3 Lakh Cr | $16B | Retail, Hypermarkets | Thrissur / Abu Dhabi |
| Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil | ₹50,000 Cr | $6B | Healthcare | Kerala / UAE |
| Ravi Pillai | ₹45,000 Cr | $5.5B | Construction, Energy | Kollam / Gulf |
| Joy Alukkas | ₹42,000 Cr | $5B | Jewellery | Thrissur |
| Sunny Varkey | ₹40,000 Cr | $4.8B | Education | Dubai / Kerala |
| Dr. Azad Moopen | ₹25,000 Cr | $3B | Healthcare | Kerala / UAE |
| Gokulam Gopalan | ₹18,000 Cr | $2.2B | Finance, Hospitality | Thrissur |
| Farook Kassim | ₹15,000 Cr | $1.8B | Shipping, Trading | Kozhikode / Dubai |
| Cheruvathur Family | ₹12,000 Cr | $1.5B | Textiles, Retail | Thrissur / Kochi |
| Elite Group | ₹10,000 Cr | $1.2B | Food, Retail | Kerala / GCC |
Summary: Kerala’s billionaires and business families thrive in retail, healthcare, construction, education, and food, showcasing the state’s global wealth power.
FAQs on Richest People in Kerala 2025
Who is the richest person in Kerala 2025?
M.A. Yusuff Ali, Chairman of Lulu Group International, is the richest person in Kerala with a net worth of ₹1.3 lakh crore ($16B).
Who are the top 5 richest people in Kerala?
The top 5 richest are M.A. Yusuff Ali, Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Ravi Pillai, Joy Alukkas, and Sunny Varkey.
Which industries create most billionaires in Kerala?
Retail, healthcare, construction, education, jewelry, and FMCG are Kerala’s biggest wealth drivers.
Is Lulu Group the biggest wealth creator in Kerala?
Yes, Lulu Group led by M.A. Yusuff Ali is Kerala’s biggest wealth creator, with malls, hypermarkets, and hospitality worldwide.
Are Kerala billionaires part of India’s richest?
Yes, M.A. Yusuff Ali and Ravi Pillai often feature in India’s billionaire rankings. See our full guide:
Top 10 Richest Person in India.
Do Kerala’s billionaires feature in Asia’s richest?
Yes, Yusuff Ali and Ravi Pillai also rank among Asia’s wealthiest. Explore more in
Top 10 Richest People in Asia.
Which cities in Kerala have the most billionaires?
Thrissur and Kochi lead the list with families like Lulu, Alukkas, and Elite Group based there.
How much wealth do Kerala’s top 10 control?
Collectively, the top 10 richest in Kerala control over ₹3.5 lakh crore ($42B+) in 2025.
Conclusion: Kerala’s Wealth Story in 2025
The richest people in Kerala 2025 prove that diaspora drive, service excellence, and brand trust can scale globally. From Lulu Group and Aster to RP Group and Alukkas, Kerala’s tycoons generate jobs at home while expanding across the Gulf and beyond.
These leaders aren’t just wealthy — they’re nation-builders: investing in schools, hospitals, skill programs, and disaster relief. Their stories show how Kerala converts tradition and NRI networks into modern, global enterprises.
Compare with our state and national lists for a wider lens: Uttar Pradesh • Gujarat • Rajasthan • India • Asia.
Summary: Kerala’s wealth engine blends NRI entrepreneurship with home-grown brands — a resilient model powering jobs, philanthropy, and global expansion.
