Seasoned actor Shanawas, child of renowned Malayalam star Prem Nazir, passes away at 71 years old
Malayalam film industry and fans are mourning the loss of actor Shanawas, who passed away on Monday at the age of 71. Shanawas, the son of legendary actor Prem Nazir and Habeeba Beevi, was born in Thiruvananthapuram in 1955 and had three sisters.
Shanawas completed his early education at Chirayinkeezhu English Medium School, Montfort School, and Yercaud, followed by a master's degree in English Literature from New College, Chennai. He made his acting debut in the 1981 film Premageethangal, directed by Balachandra Menon. Over his career, Shanawas acted in more than 50 films in Malayalam and Tamil.
Some of his notable works include Mazhanilavu, Eeyugam, Maniyara, Neelagiri, Garbhashreemaan, Zachariyayude Garbhinikal, and others. After a break from the industry, he returned with the 2011 film China Town. His final film appearance was in the 2022 Prithviraj-starrer Jana Gana Mana.
In addition to films, Shanawas was active in television, appearing in serials like Shankupushpam, Ammathottil, Kadamattathu Kathanar, Summer in America, Velutha Kathreena, and Sathyameva Jayathe.
Shanawas was married to Ayesha Abdul Aziz (also known as Ayesha Bivi), who was related to his family (daughter of Prem Nazir's elder sister). They had children, including sons Ajith Khan and Shameer Khan.
Shanawas had been battling his health issues for many years, and his demise was due to kidney and heart-related ailments. His last rites will take place on Tuesday (August 5) at the Palayam Muslim Jamaat cemetery.
The news of Shanawas's demise has left a deep void in the hearts of his fans and in the Malayalam film industry. He will be remembered for his contributions to Malayalam cinema and his memorable roles on screen.
Rest in peace, Shanawas. Your legacy will live on in Malayalam cinema.
Entertainment and health, two aspects of his life that are inseparable, were perhaps the key contributors to Shanawas's impact on Malayalam cinema. Despite battling health issues for years, he continued to make memorable appearances in both films and television shows, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
