Kochi: Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan has unexpectedly become the latest Gen Z social media trend, with the hashtag “Pookie CM” dominating Instagram reels, memes and fan edits across Kerala and beyond. From comparison videos linking him with Vijay to brand promotions built around his now-viral grin, the trend has rapidly turned into one of the internet’s most talked-about political moments.

The viral moment began after Satheesan reacted with a playful facial expression during a press conference when a reporter asked him about vehicle modifications. The clip quickly spread across Instagram, with users calling him “Pookie CM,” a Gen Z slang term often used affectionately for someone considered cute, wholesome or lovable.

Within days, the trend exploded online. Instagram users started sharing edits, remix videos and reaction reels featuring the Chief Minister’s smile, while meme pages turned the clip into viral content. Several reels compare Kerala’s “Pookie CM” with Tamil Nadu’s “handsome CM” narrative around Vijay, adding to the crossover appeal among young social media users.

 

The trend has now moved beyond memes. Online businesses, shopping pages and local brands have started using Satheesan’s viral expression to promote products, adding captions and trending audio tracks to tap into the massive engagement surrounding the hashtag.

What made the trend stand out was the unexpected Gen Z reaction to a senior political leader. Many users online described Satheesan’s expression as “cool,” “relatable” and “wholesome,” with comments suggesting Kerala had finally got a “smiling Chief Minister” after years of serious political imagery.

The trend also reflects how political personalities are increasingly becoming part of internet culture, especially on Instagram and short-video platforms where memes and reaction clips drive viral engagement. Several users said the reels now appear “on every scroll,” turning the clip into a full-fledged social media phenomenon rather than a one-day viral moment.

Satheesan himself later addressed the viral clip, saying the expression came naturally while responding to a young reporter. He explained that he reacted affectionately and wanted to reassure the journalist that the issue would be looked into.

“It is a desire that the youth have and I told him we will take care of it,” he said while speaking about the now-viral moment.