Malayalam cinema gave a lot to movie buffs to cheer in 2014. From new concepts and styles in filmmaking, to introducing fresh faces, it was an eventful year. The new crop of actors and actresses stood out for their versatility and performances.

Here is the list of actors and actresses who made their debut in Malayalam cinema in 2014:

Nikki Galrani

Nikki Galrani
Nikki GalraniFacebook/ Nikki Galrani

Nikki Galrani is the most successful actress of 2014. She made her debut in the hit movie "1983", at a time when Malayalam cinema was desperately looking for a new face. Her character as Manjula stole the hearts of many Malayalam cinema lovers. She went on to become one of the most sought-after actresses of the year.

She chose her roles carefully and did successful films like "Ohm Shanthi Oshana" and "Vellimoonga". The actress has now wrapped up the shooting of "Ivan Maryadharaman" opposite Dileep and the film is set to release in 2015.

Santhosh Kezhattoor

Santhosh Kezhattoor
Santhosh Kezhattoor in "Nadan"Facebook/ Santhosh Kezhattoor

Santhosh Kezhattoor is probably the most talented actor who made his debut this year. A theatre artist, he appeared with Lal Jose's hit movie "Vikramadithyan". His performance as thief Kunjunni was applauded by the audience.

He later went on to do some versatile roles this year, like Minister Satheesan in "Varsham" and Ochira Papi kutty in "Nadan".

Farhaan Faasil

Njan Steve Lopez
Poster of 'Njan Steve Lopez''Njan Steve Lopez' official facebook page

Farhaan Faasil was probably the most talked about debutant of the year. The young actor had lot of pressure on him as he had to match up to his star brother and actor Fahadh Faasil ,and his father and legendary filmmaker Fazil.

Farhaan played the title role of Steve in Rajeev Ravi's "Njan Steve Lopez" and his performance was sensational. He played the role of an adolescent boy from Trivandrum, who believed that things can only get better in life. He was naive and a dreamer and shared this virtual candy floss world with Anjali (Ahaana), the love of his life.

The young actor lived up to the expectations and is one of the favourite actors of the year.

Ahaana Krishna Kumar

Ahaana Krishnakumar
Njan Steve LopezFacebook/ Njan Steve Lopez

Another star kid on the block, Ahaana Krishnakumar, daughter of popular actor Krishna Kumar, made her debut in Rajeev Ravi's critically acclaimed movie "Njan Steve Lopez". Her looks and performance as 'Anjali' completed the role of a teenager who is possessive about her boyfriend.

She became an instant favourite among youngsters and is now one of the promising upcoming actresses in Malayalam cinema.

Nisha Aggarwal

Nisha Aggarwal
Nisha AggarwalFacebook/ Nisha Aggarwal

Nisha Aggarwal, sister of popular actress Kajal Aggarwal, was another popular face of the year. The actress began her career with "Bhaiyya Bhaiyya" opposite Kunchacko Boban and later, in "Cousins", which starred Kunchacko and Biju Menon. In both the movies, Nisha's performance was laudable.