(Picture Courtesy: Facebook)
Malayalam actor Shanawas, the son of the legendary actor Prem Nazir, passed away on Monday, August 4, 2025. His demise has left the Malayalam film and television community in mourning. Despite being often referred to as 'Prem Nazir's son,' Shanawas made a name for himself, starting as a romantic hero in the early '80s and later becoming a beloved figure on Malayalam television. Born in 1955 and educated in Yercaud and Chennai, Shanawas was encouraged by his father to pursue acting. His debut in 'Premageethangal' (1981), directed by Balachandra Menon, was a box office success. He quickly gained a dedicated fan following and by the end of the decade, he had starred in around 80 films, with 25 of them as the lead.
A decade in cinema, then a new chapter on TV
After his father's passing in 1989, Shanawas gradually moved away from cinema, eventually leaving the industry in 1991 to work in Dubai. However, fate had other plans. A brief visit back to Kerala in 2003 marked a remarkable comeback. He returned to the screen with 'Kaliyodam' and the series 'Shankhupushpam'.
A life in art, till the very end
Even while excelling on the small screen, Shanawas never abandoned cinema. He took on significant supporting roles in movies like 'Veeraputhran', where he portrayed the freedom fighter K.P. Kesava Menon, and in 'Kumbasaram' and 'Zachariyayude Garbhinikal', showcasing his talent in anti-hero roles. His final film appearance was in 'Jana Gana Mana' (2022) directed by Dijo Jose Antony. Some of his popular films include 'Umaanilayam', 'Orikkal Oridathu', 'Chithram', 'Arhatha', 'Neelagiri', 'Inspector Balram', 'China Town', 'Veeraputhran', 'Dolls', 'Midhya', 'Ragam Sree Ragam', and 'Bhagavan'.
