Veteran Malayalam Actor Shanawas, Son of Iconic Star Prem Nazir, Passes Away at 71
Malayalam cinema mourns the loss of veteran actor Shanawas, son of legendary film icon Prem Nazir, who passed away on August 4, 2025, in Thiruvananthapuram. He was 71 years old and had been suffering from chronic health issues for several years.
Born on December 20, 1955, Shanawas was introduced to the film industry in 1981 with the movie Premageethangal, directed by Balachandra Menon. A postgraduate in English literature from The New College, Chennai, Shanawas soon found his place in Malayalam cinema with a series of well-received films during the 1980s and early 1990s.
Throughout his career, he starred in more than 50 films, leaving a mark with his performances in Mazhanilavu, Gaanam, Irattimadhuram, Neelagiri, Chithram, and Zachariyayude Garbhinikal. His screen presence and dignified portrayals resonated with audiences, despite being under the shadow of his father’s towering legacy.
After a break from cinema in the mid-90s, Shanawas returned to the big screen with China Town in 2011. He later appeared in several other projects, including the acclaimed 2022 film Jana Gana Mana, in which he played a supporting role. In addition to films, he was also active in Malayalam television, featuring in serials such as Shankhumukham, Velutha Kathreena, Kadamattathu Kathanar, and Sathyameva Jayathe.
Shanawas had been dealing with kidney and heart ailments for nearly four years. His health worsened in early August, leading to his hospitalization at a private facility in Thiruvananthapuram. He passed away late on Sunday night, around 11:50 pm, surrounded by close family members.
His funeral took place on August 5 at the Palayam Muslim Jamaat Cemetery, attended by relatives, friends, and well-wishers from the film fraternity.
As the eldest son of Prem Nazir, one of the most celebrated actors in Malayalam cinema, Shanawas carried a legacy that was both a privilege and a challenge. Rather than attempting to outshine his father’s fame, he chose a path of quiet commitment to his craft and made his own name through consistent performances.
He is survived by his wife Ayisha, who is also his cousin through familial ties, and their two sons, Shameer Khan and Ajith Khan, who are currently based in Malaysia and Australia respectively.
Shanawas was known in the film industry for his humility, calm nature, and professional discipline. While he did not seek the limelight, his work earned him respect from colleagues and fans alike. He remained connected to the world of cinema even during his later years, attending tributes and events celebrating his father’s unparalleled contribution to Indian films.
With his passing, Malayalam cinema has lost a link to its golden era. Shanawas may not have been a superstar in the conventional sense, but his sincerity, quiet dignity, and dedication to his roles ensured that he earned a permanent place in the hearts of many.
His legacy, like that of his father, will be remembered — not through grand headlines, but through the subtle impact he left on screen and the affection he earned off it.
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