Shaju Sreedhar

Shaju Sreedhar, also known as Kalabhavan Shaju, is an Indian actor and mimicry artist known for his work in Malayalam cinema. He began his career as a stage artist and mimicry performer before transitioning into films. Over the years, he has appeared in numerous supporting roles, often portraying comedic, character, or antagonist roles. With a career spanning more than two decades, Shaju has established himself as a familiar face in Malayalam films and television serials.

Shaju Sreedhar
Other names	Kalabhavan Shaju
Occupation(s)	Actor, comedian, mimicry artist, television actor
Years active	1995–present
Spouse	Chandini Shaji
Children	Nandana Shaji, Neelanjana Shaji

Early life and education

Shaju completed his schooling at Mundur High School and pursued higher education at the Co-operative Arts and Science College. During his college years, he became active in mimicry and stage performances, eventually joining a professional mimicry troupe.

Career

Shaju Sreedhar began his artistic career with the famed Kalabhavan troupe, known for nurturing many mimicry and acting talents in Kerala. His flair for comedy and character portrayal helped him gain early recognition in stage shows and mimicry programs, eventually leading to opportunities in the Malayalam film industry.^{[citation needed]}

He made his film debut in 1995 with Mimics Action 500. Since then, he has acted in a wide variety of roles across multiple genres including drama, comedy, thrillers, and family entertainers. His ability to seamlessly shift between humorous and serious roles has made him a dependable supporting actor in the industry. Shaju is also a member of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA).^[1]

Filmography

Year	Title	Role	Notes
1995	Mimics Action 500		Debut film
2003	Pulival Kalyanam	Murali
2013	Romans	Mathukkutty
2014	Angry Babies in Love
2016	Ithu Thaanda Police	Chettiyar
	Paavada	MLA's brother-in-law
2017	Ramaleela
2019	Irupathiyonnaam Noottaandu
2020	Anjaam Pathiraa	Paulson
	Ayyappanum Koshiyum	Joekuttan
2021	#Home	Mobile Shop Owner
	Kurup
2022	Saudi Vellakka	Advocate Shaju
	Theerppu	Menon
	Solomonte Theneechakal	Kunju Muhammed
	Night Drive	Anil Nair (Channel Head)
	Ini Utharam		[2]
	Route Map		[3]
2023	Theeppori Benny	Manthan Baby	[4]
	Sesham Mike-il Fathima	L. P. Gopakumar	[5]
2024	Gumasthan	Sivaraman	[6]
	Guardian Angel
2025	Rekhachithram	Inspector Salim	[7]
	Padakkalam	Professor
	Thalavara †	TBA	[8]

Television

In addition to his film work, Shaju Sreedhar has also appeared in several Malayalam television serials and comedy shows. His television appearances have further cemented his popularity among family audiences.

Personal life

Shaju is married to actress Chandini Shaji, known for her performances in popular Malayalam films such as Sathyabhamakku Oru Premalekhanam, Dilliwala Rajakumaran, and Vazhunnor. The couple has two daughters, Nandana Shaji and Neelanjana Shaji, both of whom have appeared as child actors in recent Malayalam films.^[9] Shaju and Chandini often shares glimpses of their personal life, including wedding anniversary celebrations and interviews reflecting on their relationship.^[10][11]

In interviews, Shaju has openly discussed his views on love and relationships, expressing concern about the lack of sincerity in modern romantic dynamics.^[12]

Recognition

In 2024, Shaju Sreedhar was awarded the prestigious UAE Golden Visa, a recognition given to individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields.^[13]

Shaju has also spoken candidly about his aspirations and challenges in the industry. In an in-depth interview, he discussed the emotional and creative aspects of his career, referring to his professional journey as a pursuit of his dreams.^[14]

He remains active in both films and media, continuing to contribute meaningfully to Malayalam cinema.^[15]