Who is Khalid Rahman? The Malayalam director making headlines amid drug scandal in Kerala

Khalid Rahman, the acclaimed Malayalam filmmaker behind hits such as Thallumaala and Alappuzha Gymkhana, was arrested on April 27, 2025, in Kochi after being found in possession of 1.63 grams of hybrid cannabis.

According to reports, he was arrested along with fellow director Ashraf Hamza and their associate Shalif Mohammed during a pre-dawn raid conducted by the Excise Department at a flat reportedly rented by cinematographer Sameer Thahir.

The arrests are part of a broader crackdown on drug use within the Malayalam film industry, following a spate of high-profile cases. While Rahman and Hamza were released on station bail due to the small quantity of cannabis seized, the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) has suspended both directors from the Directors’ Union pending further investigation.

The case has reignited debates around the prevalence of substance abuse among celebrities and highlighted the growing demand for stricter enforcement of drug laws in the entertainment industry. But who's Khalid Rahman?

Known for his innovative storytelling and distinct visual style, Rahman made his directorial debut with Anuraga Karikkin Vellam (2016), a film that was both a commercial and critical success. Over the years, he has established himself as one of the most dynamic young filmmakers in Malayalam cinema, with a career marked by diverse projects like Unda (2019), Love (2020), and the vibrant, action-packed Thallumaala (2022).

Born into a family deeply rooted in the film industry, Khalid’s creative journey seemed almost destined. He is the son of the late actor V.P. Khalid and the brother of noted cinematographers Shyju Khalid and Jimshi Khalid. This strong artistic background significantly shaped his early exposure to cinema and storytelling.

Khalid began his career behind the scenes as an assistant director, contributing to acclaimed films such as Ustad Hotel (2012), North 24 Kaatham (2013), and Sapthamashree Thaskaraha (2014).

Alongside assisting, he also made brief cameo appearances in films like Parava (2017) and Mayaanadhi (2017), showcasing his versatility in front of the camera.

His directorial debut, Anuraga Karikkin Vellam, was praised for its fresh narrative style and relatable characters, earning him the Vanitha Film Award for Best Debutant Director in 2017. Khalid’s second directorial venture, Unda, starring Mammootty, addressed the challenges faced by police officers deployed in Maoist-affected regions, earning critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal and nuanced storytelling.

In 2020, during the COVID-19 lockdown, Khalid directed Love, an experimental psychological thriller filmed entirely indoors. Released on Netflix, the film stood out for its intense performances and tight narrative, further establishing his reputation as a bold and adaptive filmmaker.

Rahman's Thallumaala (2022) marked a turning point in his career. With its vibrant, non-linear storytelling and stylized action sequences, the film was a commercial blockbuster. It broke away from Malayalam cinema’s traditional realism and resonated strongly with younger audiences, earning him widespread acclaim.

In 2025, Khalid delivered another surprise success with Alappuzha Gymkhana. Initially flying under the radar, the film grew steadily through strong word-of-mouth and became one of the sleeper hits of the year. Critics praised its grounded storytelling, emotional depth, and Khalid’s signature flair for blending humor and drama seamlessly.

Apart from directing, Khalid has also appeared in cameo roles in films like Sulaikha Manzil (2023) and Manjummel Boys (2024), where he played the character Prasad. He even showcased his musical talent as a playback singer for the popular track "Thoottikkanoda Patha" in Thallumaala.

Despite recent controversies, including his name surfacing in a drug-related case, Khalid Rahman's contributions to Malayalam cinema remain significant. His ability to evolve, experiment, and consistently push creative boundaries has made him one of the most exciting filmmakers of his generation.