As 2025 draws to a close, former US President Barack Obama has once again shared his highly anticipated annual list of favorite books, films, and music. This tradition, which he started during his presidency, offers a curated glimpse into his diverse cultural tastes and has become a significant moment in pop culture.
Indian Talent Takes Center Stage
The list for 2025 notably features several Indian and Indian-origin creators, reflecting a continued appreciation for artistic contributions from the subcontinent. In the music category, Obama included the track "Pasayadan" by Indian-origin vocalist Ganavya. Her work finds a place alongside international heavyweights like Kendrick Lamar, SZA, Lady Gaga, Drake, and the K-pop group BLACKPINK.
The literary world saw an even stronger Indian presence. Acclaimed novelist Anita Desai's book "Rosarita" was named among Obama's summer reading recommendations. Furthermore, Kiran Desai's novel "The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny" was highlighted as one of his favorite books of the entire year. This inclusion places her in the esteemed company of authors such as Zadie Smith, Ian McEwan, and Beth Macy.
A Deep Dive into Obama's 2025 Picks
Beyond the Indian entries, Obama's selections span a wide array of genres and creators. His top book choices for the year included "Paper Girl" by Beth Macy, "Flashlight" by Susan Choi, and "We the People" by Jill Lepore. He also gave a special, affectionate mention to "The Look" by former First Lady Michelle Obama, humorously admitting he was "obviously biased" while praising her work.
On the film front, Obama's favorites for 2025 ranged from "One Battle After Another" and "Sinners" to "It Was Just an Accident" and "Hamnet." According to reports from USA Today, several of these titles are considered strong contenders in the upcoming awards season.
His music list, comprising 30 songs, featured artists like Olivia Dean, Bruce Springsteen, Rosalía, Chappell Roan, and Drake, showcasing his eclectic auditory palette.
The Impact of the Presidential Endorsement
Obama's yearly list is more than just a personal roundup; it has a tangible impact on the cultural landscape. The endorsement often leads to a significant surge in interest and sales for the featured books, albums, and films. By including Indian creators like Ganavya and the Desais, he amplifies their work on a global platform, introducing them to a vast international audience.
In his social media post announcing the list, Obama expressed hope that people would "discover something new" and also encouraged his followers to send him their own recommendations. This interactive element continues to make the list a shared cultural conversation as one year ends and another begins.
