Actor Shanavas, Son of Malayalam Legend Prem Nazir, Passes Away at 71

Veteran Malayalam actor Shanavas, the son of legendary actor Prem Nazir, passed away late on Monday at the age of 71. He had been undergoing treatment for heart and kidney-related ailments for the past four years. On August 4, 2025, his condition deteriorated and he was admitted to a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram, where he passed away around 11:50 PM.

Shanavas was born in Thiruvananthapuram to Prem Nazir and Habeeba Beevi. He completed his schooling at Chirayinkeezhu English Medium School, Montfort School, and Yercaud, later obtaining a master’s degree in English literature from New College, Chennai. His entry into the film industry came in 1981 while he was still pursuing his postgraduate studies. He made his debut with the film Premageethangal, directed by Balachandra Menon.

Over his career, Shanavas acted in more than 50 Malayalam and Tamil films. His performances spanned a wide range of roles, from romantic leads to powerful antagonists. Some of his notable films include Mazhanilavu, Eeyugam, Maniyara, Neelagiri, Chitram, Kaumara Swapnangal, Kumbasaram, Gaanam, and Himam. After taking a break from films during the 1990s, he made a comeback in 2011 with China Town. His final appearance was in the critically acclaimed film Jana Gana Mana, which starred Prithviraj in the lead role.

In addition to his work in cinema, Shanavas was also active on the small screen. He featured in several popular Malayalam television serials, including Shankhumukham, Velutha Kathreena, Kadamatathu Kathanar, and Sathyameva Jayathe.

Shanavas is survived by his wife Ayisha Beevi and two sons, Ajith Khan and Shameer Khan. He also leaves behind three sisters—Laila, Rasiya, and Reetha. His funeral is scheduled to take place at 5 PM on Tuesday at the Palayam Muslim Jamaath Cemetery in Thiruvananthapuram.

Though he never reached the iconic stature of his father Prem Nazir, who holds a Guinness World Record for the most lead roles in films, Shanavas built a respectable and meaningful career of his own. He will be remembered for his versatility, quiet charm, and contribution to Malayalam cinema across generations.