After years as one of the Congress party's strongest voices in Kerala politics, VD Satheesan is now leading the state as Chief Minister. Alongside discussions about his political future, interest has also grown around the people closest to him and the family background that shaped his public life.

VD Satheesan, whose full name is Vadassery Damodaran Satheesan, was born on May 31, 1964, in Nettoor in Kochi.

He was born to K Damodara Menon and V Vilasini Amma in a Nair family. His father is often credited with influencing Satheesan's upbringing and shaping his values during his early years.

Satheesan completed his schooling in Kerala before pursuing higher studies in social work and law. He studied at Sacred Heart College, Thevara, Rajagiri College of Social Sciences and later completed his legal education in Thiruvananthapuram.

The Kerala Chief Minister is married to R Lakshmipriya. Unlike many political spouses who actively participate in public programmes and campaigns, Lakshmipriya has largely stayed away from political events and media attention over the years. His wife is also listed in election affidavits regarding shared assets and properties.

VD Satheesan and Lakshmipriya have one daughter named Unnimaya.

Satheesan rarely discusses his family life publicly and has generally kept his daughter away from political publicity and media appearances.

From lawyer to full-time politician

Before entering active politics full time, Satheesan worked as an advocate at the Kerala High Court for nearly a decade.

His legal background later became one of the defining features of his political career, especially during Assembly debates where he became known for his sharp arguments and detailed presentations.

Satheesan entered electoral politics through student activism and Congress organisation work before becoming MLA from the Paravur constituency in 2001. Since then, he has remained one of the party's strongest leaders in Kerala.

Rise as Congress' key face in Kerala