Albany, New York: The legislation highlights the increasing impact of this community in American society, including areas such as public affairs, business, healthcare, and civic participation.
On May 22, New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar introduced a resolution to officially recognize May 2025 as Malayalee Heritage Month within the state.
Assembly Resolution No. 558 honors the cultural heritage of the Malayali people, who hail from Kerala, India, and acknowledges their substantial presence throughout New York. The resolution also celebrates the broader accomplishments of Asian and Asian-Pacific Islander Americans, with special emphasis on the Malayali community’s contributions to the state's cultural richness.
According to data from the 2012 U.S. Census, around 644,097 individuals of Malayalam descent live in the United States, with the largest populations found in Bergen County, New Jersey, and Rockland County, New York.
To mark this occasion, Rajkumar—who is the first Indian American elected to the New York State Legislature—welcomed a group of Malayali leaders from across the state during the Assembly session.
Speaking before the Assembly, Rajkumar honored the Pioneer Club of Keralites, one of the oldest Malayali organizations in New York, and introduced its members from the Assembly floor. She described the club as a pioneering group representing the Malayali community from Kerala,a vibrant state on India’s southwestern coast known for its lush landscapes, backwaters, high literacy rate, and rich traditions of religious diversity.
Rajkumar highlighted the unity within the Malayali community, which spans various religions including Christianity and Hinduism, emphasizing their common dedication to public service, education, and leadership. “Kerala is often referred to as God’s own country, and the Malayalis here in New York embody that spirit through their roles as doctors, spiritual guides, educators, business leaders, and advocates for justice and peace,” she stated.
During the session, several notable members of the Malayali community were recognized, including Christian Bishop John C. Itty, Hindu spiritual leader Dileepkumar Thankappan, along with other prominent community figures and families.
If approved, Malayalee Heritage Month will be celebrated annually in New York with a range of cultural and educational activities that highlight Kerala’s traditions and honor the contributions of the Malayali diaspora in the state.
