Residents of Thiruvananthapuram on the good things they want to carry forward to 2026

We are in 2026. Residents from different walks of life reflect on what they cherished about Thiruvananthapuram in 2025 that they wish to see in the new year as well

City with a view

Shyam Kumar
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

After several delays and controversies, 2025 saw the opening of smart roads across the city. That added to the charm of the capital, which I have always found beautiful. The new-look with wide roads, modern street lights, footpaths, cycle tracks, median barriers with reflectors etc, has been a photographer’s delight. I wish these roads are maintained properly this year as well instead of being dug up without planning.

Manaveeyam Veedhi packed with late night crowd
| Photo Credit:
Shyam Photography

I also want to see the Kowdiar-Vellayambalam stretch regain its glory after the branches of the iconic avenue trees were cut indiscriminately last year. This green corridor, which we call Raja Patha or royal corridor, is a pride of the city.

Shyam Kumar

Photographer (@shyamphotography)

Fashion forward

Thara Devi
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

As someone working in the beauty industry, I am excited by the rapid strides the city has made in 2025 in this sector. I have seen the emergence of a customer base who knows what they want. International brands of various products are quite easily available now. Earlier people used to travel to the metros for some of the premium health and beauty treatments. But that has changed with the entry of several qualified professionals and firms. With the expertise they have I wish to see exponential growth in the field, including in my area of work.

Thara Devi

Founder, D Artistry nail art studio

Surging ahead

Sreeya Iyer
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

As a proud native of the city, I cherish every aspect about it. Development has been the mainstay of 2025 and I look forward to the same this year as well, that too without compromising on the aesthetics of the cityscape. Just see how Manaveeyam Veedhi has gone for a makeover. Or, even the development around Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple. I wish to see more changes based around places of worship at Palayam, Vettucaud, Beemapally etc.

Madre de Deus Church at Vettucaud
| Photo Credit:
NIRMAL HARINDRAN

With regard to fitness, I am happy that people’s outlook has changed. They are taking up new sports activities and are investing more into improving health. I love the way the city has grown and wish for exponential growth since I want the best for my city.

Sreeya Iyer

Fitness influencer, actor, entrepreneur

Spreading positivity

Swaroop Krishnan R
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

I started my business in Thiruvananthapuram with ₹50,000 and now it is worth ₹150 crore. I don’t think any fashion brand from the city has achieved this success. And I owe it to the positive energy of the city. I have people from other states working with me and once they come here they don’t want to go back because they say the city has a soul to it, which inspire them. I wish it to continue this year as well.

Swaroop Krishnan R

Co-founder and CEO, Mydesignation

Relishing novel flavours

Athira J, co-founder, Chaikaari
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

People in Thiruvananthapuram are open to trying new things. There is a quiet curiosity here especially when it comes to food. While the city is deeply rooted in tradition, people are eager to explore new flavours and cuisine from different cultures. They appreciate authenticity, be it in the case of a traditional recipe or a new one. This openness creates a healthy space for food entrepreneurs and small businesses to experiment, learn and grow.

A street food cart in the city
| Photo Credit:
NIRMAL HARINDRAN

I hope this spirit remains unchanged in 2026 and we continue to be a city where people explore the world through food, while staying connected to their cultural roots.

Athira J

Co-founder, Chaikaari