Prem Nazir
Encyclopedia
Abdul Khader better known by his stage name
Prem Nazir , was an Indian film actor. He is considered one of the all time super stars in Malayalam cinema
. He is referred to as the Nithya Haritha Nayakan (Ever Green Hero) of Malayalam cinema.
Nazir holds four acting records in the Indian film industry; for playing the lead role in nearly 610 films, for playing opposite the same heroine in 107 films (with Sheela
), for acting in lead roles in thirty nine films which were released in a single year (1979
), and for acting opposite eighty heroines. He is regarded as one of the most successful actors in Indian cinema, and is also known for his powerful performances in films like Iruttinte Athmavu
, Kallichellamma
, Dhwani
, Murappennu
, Anubhavangal Paalichakal, Padayottam
, Vida Parayum Munpe
, Azhakulla Saleena
, and Nadhi
. The Government of India
has honoured him with the Padma Bhushan
and Padma Shri
, the third and fourth highest civilian honours respectively, for his contribution towards Indian cinema.
in the princely state of Travancore
, to Akkode Shahul Hamid and Asuma Beevi. His mother died when he was very young. He completed his formal education from Kadinamkulam Lower Primary School, Sri Chithiravilasam School, S D College (Alappuzha
), and Saint Berchman's College (Changanassery). By the time he completed his education, he had become an experienced drama artist. It was on the sets of his second movie, Visappinte Vili
(1952), that Abdul Khader was renamed Prem Nazir by Thikkurussi Sukumaran Nair.
(1951), when he was a student at SB College, Changanacherry. He won the best actor award for this role in the play directed by Sheppard. His first film was Marumakal
(1952), directed by S. K. Chari and produced by Paul Kallungal. He was credited Abdul Khader itself in this film. He got his career break with Visappinte Vili
(1952), his second film, made for K&K Combines (Udaya Studio) by Telegu director Mohan Rao. PremNazir started his career when drama was the most popular visual medium and film making at its infancy. He started acting for the Excel Productions (Udaya Studio) and most of his films were for the Udaya and Merryland Studio
s.
(1967). Playing a demented youth — Velayadhan, Prem Nazir discovered his prowess as a dramatic actor of great intensity. Many critics have evaluated this role as his masterpiece, and as one of the finest onscreen performances ever. Written by M. T. Vasudevan Nair
, the film provided Malayalam cinema with a new direction; that of the low budget film. One could see a lot of the pre-occupations of the scenarist, who carried the touches of human relationships through all of his subsequent films whether as screenplay writer or director. In spite of its large number of studio shots and overall theatricality, the film was so culturally rich that many of the episodes would become archetypes for future Malayalam film makers dealing with family drama. It depicted the story of an imbecile (finely portrayed by Prem Nazir) in a joint family with remarkable sensitivity and seriousness of purpose.
During his peak time, Nazir gave life to many characters and enjoyed a wide popularity among all sects of the society. He has played historical characters based on Vadakkan Pattukal. Aromalunni
, Kannappanunni
, Thacholi Ambu
and Padayottam
are some major films in this genre. Although the actor faced criticism for playing such roles as his physique was least suited for it, he still enjoyed a huge fan following among the audiences. He was well known for his roles as Hindu deities like Rama
, Krishna
and Ayyappa. In his movies, Nazir was well known for essaying the eternal romantic hero and the good guy who would bash up the villains without remorse.
Even though Nazir could not regenerate after the mid-1970s, he maintained his superstardom till the beginning of 1980s. In 1979, 39 of his films got released; a record. He also holds the record for having acted in the most leading roles - about 700 films (with 85 heroines; another record). Another record is for the most enduring screen team along with actress Sheela
. They played opposite each other in 130 movies by 1975. Although Sheela is known as the lucky mascot of Prem Nazir, his movies with other heroines like Jayabharathi
and Sharada
were also big successes at box office. Prem Nazir pairing with comedian Adoor Bhasi
was a sure-fire laugh riot. The void left by this duo is yet to be occupied. Nazir's association with playback singer K. J. Yesudas
was perfect for the audience. Even today many consider the Nazir - Yesudas combination of song sequences remains the best ever on screen. He is quite popularly described as Nithyaharithanayakan (The Evergreen Hero), which do justice to the fact that he was acting as the hero in his elder years as well. Senior Malayalam cine actress Kaviyoor Ponnamma
has revealed that Prem Nazir was a very good singer, and had training in Carnatic music
.
, Sukumaran
and Soman
. In 1981, he played a major supporting role in Mohan
's Vida Parayum Munpe
that earned him the Kerala State Special Jury Award. This shift, from a super romantic hero to character roles, gave him many powerful characters during the mid-1980s. His last completed film was A. T. Abu's Dhwani
(1989), in which he co-starred with Jayaram
. His last release was Priyadarshan
's Kadathanadan Ambadi
(1990), in which he co-starred with Mohanlal. In one of his last interviews, he had expressed a desire to direct a film with Mammootty
and Mohanlal in the lead.
but he never contested elections. He is also a social reformer and with a helping mentality to others. He helps with money to some public needs in and around Chirayinkeezhu. e.g.:- Koonthalloor School, Chirainkeezhu Hospital, Palakunnu Library etc. Nazir also wrote a book on the film characters he essayed, Enne Thediyetha Kathapathrangal.
Prem Nazir's brother Prem Nawaz (Abdul Wahab) also acted in a few films. Although he was the first in the family to begin acting in movies, he later began producing films - Agniputhri, Thulaavarsham, Poojakku Edukatha Pookkal, Neethi and Keni to name a few. Prem Nawaz's only son, Prem Kishore has also had a stint with the industry by acting in two Malayalam films - Vacation and Thaskaraputran. Prem Nawaz has the distinction of acting in the first ever colour film made in Malayalam - Kandam Vechu Kottu. Prem Nazir's son Shahnawaz acted in a few films as well but could not succeed like his father.
Prem Nazir has three daughters viz. Laila (married to Engineer Rashid of Trivandrum & settled at Calicut), Rasiya (married to Mr.Hashim, Businessman from Kannur & settled at Chennai) - both elder to Shanawas. The youngest daughter is Rita (married to Doctor Sharafuddin of Punalur & settled at Muscat). Shanawas's wife Aisha (Malaysia) is the daughter of the eldest sister of Prem Nazir viz. Suleikha Beevi.
in 1983 by the President of India in recognition of distinguished services of a high order to the nation in his field (acting). The Prem Nazir Award was initiated in his memory, in 1992, for excellence in contributions to the Malayalam cinema
Industry. He has also held the position of National Film Award jury chairman.
and Jayan
acting alongside them in 60s and 70s respectively. Nazir who began his movie career in the early 50s, later acted alongside popular future stars like Mammootty
& Mohanlal
by the 80s. He was a mainstream superstar in Malayalam for over a quarter of a century from late 1950s to early 80s. He also has an unofficial recognition of playing a campus character while in his late 50s.
, tunes of Devarajan
and voice of Yesudas produced what is called the golden era of malayalam film songs.
, a famed comedy actor who would accompany Nazir characters in investigations. These hit mainstream popularity with the trendsetter Lanka Dahanam and are perhaps the single most popular movie series in malayalam film history. The waves created by this movie series continue in malayalam cinema, arguably to this day. It has inspired numerous adaptations and similar series like for example popular CBI series with Mammootty in the lead and a satirical CID series of Mohanlal-Sreenivasan team. Other inspired films are C.I.D Unnikrishnan starring Jayaram
& C.I.D Moosa with Dileep
in the lead.
Another popular film series starring Nazir was a series of movies based on Vadakanpaattu which are part of the traditional folklore of Kerala. These are tales of martial warriors spread over generations through folk songs. Although the series may have been initiated by Sathyan's title role in Thacholi Othenan, the trend was continued long after his demise with Nazir in the lead, playing various other characters from Vadakkanpattu. Nazir later teamed with other actors like Jayan
and Mohanlal
in later films of this category. A similar historical film series began later with Mammootty
in the lead.
Stage name
A stage name, also called a showbiz name or screen name, is a pseudonym used by performers and entertainers such as actors, wrestlers, comedians, and musicians.-Motivation to use a stage name:...
Prem Nazir , was an Indian film actor. He is considered one of the all time super stars in Malayalam cinema
Malayalam cinema
The Cinema of Kerala or Malayalam cinema refers to the film industry in the Indian state of Kerala, which makes films in the Malayalam language. Malayalam movies typically portray social or family issues and are considered more realistic than films from other parts of India. Malayalam cinema has...
. He is referred to as the Nithya Haritha Nayakan (Ever Green Hero) of Malayalam cinema.
Nazir holds four acting records in the Indian film industry; for playing the lead role in nearly 610 films, for playing opposite the same heroine in 107 films (with Sheela
Sheela
Sheela ), is a Malayalam film actress from India. She, along with Prem Nazir, holds the world record for acting in the largest number of films together as heroine and hero. In 2005 she won the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the Malayalam film Akale. She has also...
), for acting in lead roles in thirty nine films which were released in a single year (1979
1979 in film
The year 1979 in film involved some significant events.- Major events :* March 5 - Production begins on Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back.* May 25 - Alien, a landmark of the science fiction genre, is released....
), and for acting opposite eighty heroines. He is regarded as one of the most successful actors in Indian cinema, and is also known for his powerful performances in films like Iruttinte Athmavu
Iruttinte Athmavu
Iruttinte Athmavu is a 1967 Malayalam film directed by P. Bhaskaran and written by M. T. Vasudevan Nair based on his own story with the same name. It stars Prem Nazir, Sharada, Thikkurissy Sukumaran Nair, P. J. Antony, Ushakumari, Kozhikode Shantha Devi and Baby Rajani in important roles, and...
, Kallichellamma
Kallichellamma
Kallichellamma is a Malayalam language film starring Prem Nazir and Sheela. It was released in 1969....
, Dhwani
Dhwani
Dhwani is a 1988 Malayalam musical romance film directed by A. T. Abu. It was the last completed film of veteran actor and evergreen hero of Malayalam cinema Prem Nazir who died on 16 January 1989. The film has music composed by Naushad. It stars Jayaram and Shobhana in the lead roles. Suresh Gopi...
, Murappennu
Murappennu
Murappennu is a 1965 Malayalam film written by M. T. Vasudevan Nair, directed by A. Vincent and produced by Shobhana Parameswaran Nair in the banner of Roopavani. It marked the entry of M. T. Vasudevan Nair, the noted Malayalam novelist to Malayalam cinema. The film's story is based on Snehathinte...
, Anubhavangal Paalichakal, Padayottam
Padayottam
Padayottam is a 1982 Malayalam film directed by Jijo Punnoose, produced by Navodaya Appachan, and starring Prem Nazir, Madhu, Mammootty, Mohanlal and Shankar. It was the first movie in South India to be indigenously shot in the 70 mm film format...
, Vida Parayum Munpe
Vida Parayum Munpe
Vida Parayum Munpe is a 1981 Malayalam language film written by John Paul, directed by Mohan, and produced by Innocent. Prem Nazir essays the lead role in the critically acclaimed and commercially successful film. His performance also won great appreciation. Nazir was conferred the Special Jury...
, Azhakulla Saleena
Azhakulla Saleena
Azhakulla Saleena is a 1973 Malayalam language film directed by K. S. Sethumadhavan, and written by Thoppil Bhasi based on the novel of the same name by Muttathu Varkey. It stars Prem Nazir, Bahadoor, Vincent, Sankaradi, S. P. Pillai, Ramadas, Kanchana, Jayabharathi, K. P. A. C. Lalitha,...
, and Nadhi
Nadhi (1969 film)
Nadhi is a 1969 Malayalam film directed by A. Vincent, written by Thoppil Bhasi and the story by P.J. Antony. It stars Prem Nazir, Sharada, Madhu, Thikkurissy Sukumaran Nair, Adoor Bhasi, and P.J. Antony in the lead roles. The music was composed by Devarajan...
. The Government of India
Government of India
The Government of India, officially known as the Union Government, and also known as the Central Government, was established by the Constitution of India, and is the governing authority of the union of 28 states and seven union territories, collectively called the Republic of India...
has honoured him with the Padma Bhushan
Padma Bhushan
The Padma Bhushan is the third highest civilian award in the Republic of India, after the Bharat Ratna and the Padma Vibhushan, but comes before the Padma Shri. It is awarded by the Government of India.-History:...
and Padma Shri
Padma Shri
Padma Shri is the fourth highest civilian award in the Republic of India, after the Bharat Ratna, the Padma Vibhushan and the Padma Bhushan...
, the third and fourth highest civilian honours respectively, for his contribution towards Indian cinema.
Early life
Nazir was born in ChirayinkeezhuChirayinkeezhu
Chirayinkeezhu is a village in Thiruvananthapuram district situated in the Indian state of Kerala.This is the birth place of the Malayalam actors Shri. Prem Nazir and Bharath Gopi.-Places:The Sarkara Devi Temple is situated at Chirayinkeezhu...
in the princely state of Travancore
Travancore
Kingdom of Travancore was a former Hindu feudal kingdom and Indian Princely State with its capital at Padmanabhapuram or Trivandrum ruled by the Travancore Royal Family. The Kingdom of Travancore comprised most of modern day southern Kerala, Kanyakumari district, and the southernmost parts of...
, to Akkode Shahul Hamid and Asuma Beevi. His mother died when he was very young. He completed his formal education from Kadinamkulam Lower Primary School, Sri Chithiravilasam School, S D College (Alappuzha
Alappuzha
Alappuzha , also known as Alleppey, is a town in Alappuzha District of Kerala state of southern India. As per 2001 census Alleppey is the sixth largest city in Kerala with an urban population of 177,029. Alleppey is situated to the south of Kochi and north of Trivandrum...
), and Saint Berchman's College (Changanassery). By the time he completed his education, he had become an experienced drama artist. It was on the sets of his second movie, Visappinte Vili
Visappinte Vili
Visappinte Vili is a 1952 Malayalam film directed by Mohan Rao and produced by Kunchacko and K. V. Koshi under the banner of K&K Combines. It stars Prem Nazir, Thikkurissy Sukumaran Nair, Kumari Thankam, Pankajavalli, Nanukuttan, Mathappan, S. P. Pillai and Baby Girija. It was the second film in...
(1952), that Abdul Khader was renamed Prem Nazir by Thikkurussi Sukumaran Nair.
Entry into cinema
Prem Nazir had his acting debut as Shylock in the play The Merchant of VeniceThe Merchant of Venice
The Merchant of Venice is a tragic comedy by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written between 1596 and 1598. Though classified as a comedy in the First Folio and sharing certain aspects with Shakespeare's other romantic comedies, the play is perhaps most remembered for its dramatic...
(1951), when he was a student at SB College, Changanacherry. He won the best actor award for this role in the play directed by Sheppard. His first film was Marumakal
Marumakal
Marumakal is a 1952 Malayalam film that marks the acting debut of Prem Nazir. Produced by Paul Kallungal under the banner of M. P. Productions and directed by M. K. Chari, the film stars Prem Nazir in the lead role of the protagonist, and Kedamangalam Sadanandan, T. S. Muthaiah, S. J. Dev,...
(1952), directed by S. K. Chari and produced by Paul Kallungal. He was credited Abdul Khader itself in this film. He got his career break with Visappinte Vili
Visappinte Vili
Visappinte Vili is a 1952 Malayalam film directed by Mohan Rao and produced by Kunchacko and K. V. Koshi under the banner of K&K Combines. It stars Prem Nazir, Thikkurissy Sukumaran Nair, Kumari Thankam, Pankajavalli, Nanukuttan, Mathappan, S. P. Pillai and Baby Girija. It was the second film in...
(1952), his second film, made for K&K Combines (Udaya Studio) by Telegu director Mohan Rao. PremNazir started his career when drama was the most popular visual medium and film making at its infancy. He started acting for the Excel Productions (Udaya Studio) and most of his films were for the Udaya and Merryland Studio
Merryland Studio
Merryland Studio was the second film production studio in the Malayalam language film industry of India. It was established in 1951 by director-producer P. Subramaniam in Nemom, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. The studio has produced 69 films, with 59 of them directed by P. Subrahmaniam himself...
s.
Rise to stardom
With the arrival of Nazir, there was a new screen personality, a new debonair actor who could be the heart throb of the youth. Prem Nazir acquired the halo of a romantic hero and a loyal following. His tear-jerkers were very popular with women audiences and soon made him a darling of the masses. He soon became the first real star of Malayalam cinema. Another factor that helped Prem Nazir's instant rise — as it had the rise of his contemporaries in other regional film industries — was the continuing reign of mythologicals and devotionals. Costumed musicals, filmed start-to-finish within the confines of a studio, contributed their own. All such films for a long period kept him before his fans, nourished his romantic image and provided him unlimited scope for rehearsing and refining his talent in essaying diverse roles. Since the bulk of South Indian cinema was theatrical visually and aurally, Prem Nazir's stage background and his extraordinary command of Malayalam helped him win the hearts of his audience.Golden years
In the late 50s, Nazir drew attention by playing movies with themes based on social and religious injustices in the society. From 1956 to 1976, Prem Nazir rode high at the crest of a tidal wave of popularity and also gave his best to Malayalam cinema. Nazir catapulted to the row of the finest actors of India with the film Iruttinte AthmavuIruttinte Athmavu
Iruttinte Athmavu is a 1967 Malayalam film directed by P. Bhaskaran and written by M. T. Vasudevan Nair based on his own story with the same name. It stars Prem Nazir, Sharada, Thikkurissy Sukumaran Nair, P. J. Antony, Ushakumari, Kozhikode Shantha Devi and Baby Rajani in important roles, and...
(1967). Playing a demented youth — Velayadhan, Prem Nazir discovered his prowess as a dramatic actor of great intensity. Many critics have evaluated this role as his masterpiece, and as one of the finest onscreen performances ever. Written by M. T. Vasudevan Nair
M. T. Vasudevan Nair
Madathil Thekkepaattu Vasudevan Nair , popularly known as MT, is an Indian author, screenplay writer and film director. He was born in Kudallur, a small village in the present day Palakkad District, which was under the Malabar District in the Madras Presidency of the British Raj...
, the film provided Malayalam cinema with a new direction; that of the low budget film. One could see a lot of the pre-occupations of the scenarist, who carried the touches of human relationships through all of his subsequent films whether as screenplay writer or director. In spite of its large number of studio shots and overall theatricality, the film was so culturally rich that many of the episodes would become archetypes for future Malayalam film makers dealing with family drama. It depicted the story of an imbecile (finely portrayed by Prem Nazir) in a joint family with remarkable sensitivity and seriousness of purpose.
During his peak time, Nazir gave life to many characters and enjoyed a wide popularity among all sects of the society. He has played historical characters based on Vadakkan Pattukal. Aromalunni
Aromalunni
Aromalunni is a 1972 Malayalam language film based on Vadakkan Pattukal, a collection of Malayalam Ballads of medieval origin. It was directed by Kunchacko and starring Prem Nazir as Aromalunni....
, Kannappanunni
Kannappanunni
Kannappanunni is a 1977 Malayalam film based on Kalaripayattu, the traditional martial art of India. It was the 100th film featuring Prem Nazir and Sheela as the leading pair. It was Udaya Studio's 75th film.-Credit:*Director: Kunchako...
, Thacholi Ambu
Thacholi Ambu
Thacholi Ambu is a 1978 Malayalam film starring Prem Nazir, Sivaji Ganesan and Jayan. Directed and produced by Navodaya Appachan, it was the first cinemascope film of South India. Prem Nazir played the title role in the film.-Cast:...
and Padayottam
Padayottam
Padayottam is a 1982 Malayalam film directed by Jijo Punnoose, produced by Navodaya Appachan, and starring Prem Nazir, Madhu, Mammootty, Mohanlal and Shankar. It was the first movie in South India to be indigenously shot in the 70 mm film format...
are some major films in this genre. Although the actor faced criticism for playing such roles as his physique was least suited for it, he still enjoyed a huge fan following among the audiences. He was well known for his roles as Hindu deities like Rama
Rama
Rama or full name Ramachandra is considered to be the seventh avatar of Vishnu in Hinduism, and a king of Ayodhya in ancient Indian...
, Krishna
Krishna
Krishna is a central figure of Hinduism and is traditionally attributed the authorship of the Bhagavad Gita. He is the supreme Being and considered in some monotheistic traditions as an Avatar of Vishnu...
and Ayyappa. In his movies, Nazir was well known for essaying the eternal romantic hero and the good guy who would bash up the villains without remorse.
Even though Nazir could not regenerate after the mid-1970s, he maintained his superstardom till the beginning of 1980s. In 1979, 39 of his films got released; a record. He also holds the record for having acted in the most leading roles - about 700 films (with 85 heroines; another record). Another record is for the most enduring screen team along with actress Sheela
Sheela
Sheela ), is a Malayalam film actress from India. She, along with Prem Nazir, holds the world record for acting in the largest number of films together as heroine and hero. In 2005 she won the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the Malayalam film Akale. She has also...
. They played opposite each other in 130 movies by 1975. Although Sheela is known as the lucky mascot of Prem Nazir, his movies with other heroines like Jayabharathi
Jayabharathi
Jayabharathi is a popular Malayalam film actress who started her career in late 1960s. She is a two-time winner of the Kerala State Film Award for best actress....
and Sharada
Sharada (actress)
Sharada is a three time national award winning South Indian actress and Indian Parliament member. She originally hails from Andhra Pradesh. She has achieved success through Malayalam movies. Initially she did many supporting roles in Telugu films and later on moved to Malayalam film industry and...
were also big successes at box office. Prem Nazir pairing with comedian Adoor Bhasi
Adoor Bhasi
Adoor Bhasi was an Indian film actor and film director from Kerala. Adoor Bhasi was almost always cast as the man who stands next to the hero. His hilarious actions and roles became the cynosure of comic scenes in the Malayalam films of the 1950s, 60s, 70s and 80s. He is also famous for his...
was a sure-fire laugh riot. The void left by this duo is yet to be occupied. Nazir's association with playback singer K. J. Yesudas
K. J. Yesudas
Kattassery Joseph Yesudas is an Indian classical musician and playback singer.Yesudas sings Indian classical, devotional, and popular music. He has recorded more than 50,000 songs in many languages including Malayalam, Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, Telugu, Bengali, Gujarati, Oriya, Marathi, Punjabi,...
was perfect for the audience. Even today many consider the Nazir - Yesudas combination of song sequences remains the best ever on screen. He is quite popularly described as Nithyaharithanayakan (The Evergreen Hero), which do justice to the fact that he was acting as the hero in his elder years as well. Senior Malayalam cine actress Kaviyoor Ponnamma
Kaviyoor Ponnamma
Kaviyoor Ponnamma is a Malayalam film actress. She won the Kerala State Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1971, 1972, 1973, and 1994.Ponnamma was born in Kaviyoor village, near Tiruvalla to a conservative upper-class family...
has revealed that Prem Nazir was a very good singer, and had training in Carnatic music
Carnatic music
Carnatic music is a system of music commonly associated with the southern part of the Indian subcontinent, with its area roughly confined to four modern states of India: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu...
.
Late career
By the beginning of 1980s, Nazir himself moved into supporting roles. He mostly played supporting roles with the then super stars JayanJayan
Krishnan Nair , better known by his stage name Jayan , was an Indian film actor, former sailor, stunt performer and 1970s style icon. He worked in Malayalam cinema, a sector of the Indian movie industry...
, Sukumaran
Sukumaran
Edappal Ponnamkuzhi Veettil Sukumaran Nair , popularly known as Sukumaran, was an Indian film actor, and producer....
and Soman
M. G. Soman
M. G. Soman was an actor in Malayalam film. He was considered to be one of the superstars in Malayalam cinema along with Sukumaran and Jayan during the 1970s. He was born in Tiruvalla, Travancore...
. In 1981, he played a major supporting role in Mohan
Mohan (director)
Mohan is an Indian director of Malayalam films. Mohan has done several critically acclaimed films including Angene Oru Avadhikkalathu, Pakshe, Isabella, Oru Katha Oru Nunnakkatha, Idavela, Vida Parayum Mumbe and Shalini Ente Koottukari...
's Vida Parayum Munpe
Vida Parayum Munpe
Vida Parayum Munpe is a 1981 Malayalam language film written by John Paul, directed by Mohan, and produced by Innocent. Prem Nazir essays the lead role in the critically acclaimed and commercially successful film. His performance also won great appreciation. Nazir was conferred the Special Jury...
that earned him the Kerala State Special Jury Award. This shift, from a super romantic hero to character roles, gave him many powerful characters during the mid-1980s. His last completed film was A. T. Abu's Dhwani
Dhwani
Dhwani is a 1988 Malayalam musical romance film directed by A. T. Abu. It was the last completed film of veteran actor and evergreen hero of Malayalam cinema Prem Nazir who died on 16 January 1989. The film has music composed by Naushad. It stars Jayaram and Shobhana in the lead roles. Suresh Gopi...
(1989), in which he co-starred with Jayaram
Jayaram
Jayaram is an Indian film actor who mainly acts in Malayalam and Tamil films. He is also a chenda percussionist and mimic artist. In 2011, he was awarded the Padma Shri by the Government of India for his contribution towards the arts.-Early life:...
. His last release was Priyadarshan
Priyadarshan
Priyadarshan is an Indian film director, producer, and screenwriter. In a career spanning over two decades, Priyadarshan has directed over 80 films in several Indian languages including Malayalam, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu...
's Kadathanadan Ambadi
Kadathanadan Ambadi
Kadathanadan Ambadi is a Malayalam movie made in 1985 - 86 season, but was released only in 1990 directed by Priyadarshan and featuring Prem Nazir, Mohanlal and Cochin Haneefa...
(1990), in which he co-starred with Mohanlal. In one of his last interviews, he had expressed a desire to direct a film with Mammootty
Mammootty
Mammootty is an Indian film actor and producer who works mainly in Malayalam cinema. He has also acted in a few Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, and Kannada films. During a career spanning more than three decades, he has acted in more than 360 films, and is only next to Prem Nazir in the number of lead roles...
and Mohanlal in the lead.
Personal life
Prem Nazir was a teetotaller. He was not only a fine actor but also a good human being. He tried his hand in politics and had joined the Congress PartyIndian National Congress
The Indian National Congress is one of the two major political parties in India, the other being the Bharatiya Janata Party. It is the largest and one of the oldest democratic political parties in the world. The party's modern liberal platform is largely considered center-left in the Indian...
but he never contested elections. He is also a social reformer and with a helping mentality to others. He helps with money to some public needs in and around Chirayinkeezhu. e.g.:- Koonthalloor School, Chirainkeezhu Hospital, Palakunnu Library etc. Nazir also wrote a book on the film characters he essayed, Enne Thediyetha Kathapathrangal.
Prem Nazir's brother Prem Nawaz (Abdul Wahab) also acted in a few films. Although he was the first in the family to begin acting in movies, he later began producing films - Agniputhri, Thulaavarsham, Poojakku Edukatha Pookkal, Neethi and Keni to name a few. Prem Nawaz's only son, Prem Kishore has also had a stint with the industry by acting in two Malayalam films - Vacation and Thaskaraputran. Prem Nawaz has the distinction of acting in the first ever colour film made in Malayalam - Kandam Vechu Kottu. Prem Nazir's son Shahnawaz acted in a few films as well but could not succeed like his father.
Prem Nazir has three daughters viz. Laila (married to Engineer Rashid of Trivandrum & settled at Calicut), Rasiya (married to Mr.Hashim, Businessman from Kannur & settled at Chennai) - both elder to Shanawas. The youngest daughter is Rita (married to Doctor Sharafuddin of Punalur & settled at Muscat). Shanawas's wife Aisha (Malaysia) is the daughter of the eldest sister of Prem Nazir viz. Suleikha Beevi.
Awards
He was awarded the Padma BhushanPadma Bhushan
The Padma Bhushan is the third highest civilian award in the Republic of India, after the Bharat Ratna and the Padma Vibhushan, but comes before the Padma Shri. It is awarded by the Government of India.-History:...
in 1983 by the President of India in recognition of distinguished services of a high order to the nation in his field (acting). The Prem Nazir Award was initiated in his memory, in 1992, for excellence in contributions to the Malayalam cinema
Malayalam cinema
The Cinema of Kerala or Malayalam cinema refers to the film industry in the Indian state of Kerala, which makes films in the Malayalam language. Malayalam movies typically portray social or family issues and are considered more realistic than films from other parts of India. Malayalam cinema has...
Industry. He has also held the position of National Film Award jury chairman.
Popular Star and Trend Setter
Prem Nazir is known to be the most influential and trendsetting lead actor in Malayalam. He is known for his amazing longevity in that he was active during the peak years of other iconic Malayalam superstars like SathyanSathyaneshan Nadar
Manuel Sathyaneshan Nadar commonly known by his stage name Sathyan, was an Indian film actor known for his work in Malayalam cinema. He has won the Kerala State Film Award twice and is renowned for his acting skills...
and Jayan
Jayan
Krishnan Nair , better known by his stage name Jayan , was an Indian film actor, former sailor, stunt performer and 1970s style icon. He worked in Malayalam cinema, a sector of the Indian movie industry...
acting alongside them in 60s and 70s respectively. Nazir who began his movie career in the early 50s, later acted alongside popular future stars like Mammootty
Mammootty
Mammootty is an Indian film actor and producer who works mainly in Malayalam cinema. He has also acted in a few Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, and Kannada films. During a career spanning more than three decades, he has acted in more than 360 films, and is only next to Prem Nazir in the number of lead roles...
& Mohanlal
Mohanlal
Mohanlal Vishwanathan Nair , known mononymously as Mohanlal , is a National Award-winning Indian actor, producer, singer and writer who is well known for his versatile and natural acting in Indian cinema & hence widely known as the Universal Star...
by the 80s. He was a mainstream superstar in Malayalam for over a quarter of a century from late 1950s to early 80s. He also has an unofficial recognition of playing a campus character while in his late 50s.
Ultimate Romantic Hero
Nazir is generally considered the ultimate romantic hero in malayalam cinema due to his extraordinary handsomeness and ease of acting in romantic roles particularly in romantic song sequences. His song sequences combined with the lyrics of VayalarVayalar Ramavarma
Vayalar Ramavarma , often known as Vayalar, was a modern Malayalam poet and lyricist. His famous works include Sargasangeetham, Mulankaadu, Padamudrakal, Aayisha, Oru Judas janikkunnu.-Biography:...
, tunes of Devarajan
G. Devarajan
Paravoor Govindan Devarajan , popularly known as G. Devarajan or Devarajan master, was a noted Malayalam music composer, died on March 15, 2006 in Chennai, at the age of 80....
and voice of Yesudas produced what is called the golden era of malayalam film songs.
Popular film genres
Two popular film genres initiated by Prem Nazir are the C.I.D series and the Vadakkanpattu series. The former is a group of investigative films in 60s & 70s in which Nazir played James Bond like protagonists. In most of these movies Nazir teamed with Adoor BhasiAdoor Bhasi
Adoor Bhasi was an Indian film actor and film director from Kerala. Adoor Bhasi was almost always cast as the man who stands next to the hero. His hilarious actions and roles became the cynosure of comic scenes in the Malayalam films of the 1950s, 60s, 70s and 80s. He is also famous for his...
, a famed comedy actor who would accompany Nazir characters in investigations. These hit mainstream popularity with the trendsetter Lanka Dahanam and are perhaps the single most popular movie series in malayalam film history. The waves created by this movie series continue in malayalam cinema, arguably to this day. It has inspired numerous adaptations and similar series like for example popular CBI series with Mammootty in the lead and a satirical CID series of Mohanlal-Sreenivasan team. Other inspired films are C.I.D Unnikrishnan starring Jayaram
Jayaram
Jayaram is an Indian film actor who mainly acts in Malayalam and Tamil films. He is also a chenda percussionist and mimic artist. In 2011, he was awarded the Padma Shri by the Government of India for his contribution towards the arts.-Early life:...
& C.I.D Moosa with Dileep
Dileep
Dileep may refer to:* Dilip or Dileep: King in Hindu mythology* Dilip Kumar, Bollywood Indian film actor* A. R. Rahman , Indian composer, musician, and record producer...
in the lead.
Another popular film series starring Nazir was a series of movies based on Vadakanpaattu which are part of the traditional folklore of Kerala. These are tales of martial warriors spread over generations through folk songs. Although the series may have been initiated by Sathyan's title role in Thacholi Othenan, the trend was continued long after his demise with Nazir in the lead, playing various other characters from Vadakkanpattu. Nazir later teamed with other actors like Jayan
Jayan
Krishnan Nair , better known by his stage name Jayan , was an Indian film actor, former sailor, stunt performer and 1970s style icon. He worked in Malayalam cinema, a sector of the Indian movie industry...
and Mohanlal
Mohanlal
Mohanlal Vishwanathan Nair , known mononymously as Mohanlal , is a National Award-winning Indian actor, producer, singer and writer who is well known for his versatile and natural acting in Indian cinema & hence widely known as the Universal Star...
in later films of this category. A similar historical film series began later with Mammootty
Mammootty
Mammootty is an Indian film actor and producer who works mainly in Malayalam cinema. He has also acted in a few Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, and Kannada films. During a career spanning more than three decades, he has acted in more than 360 films, and is only next to Prem Nazir in the number of lead roles...
in the lead.
Important characters
- Anubhavangal Paalichakal (Experiences and Failures) (1971) – The story of persecutions and suffering of communists in the early days of modern KeralaKeralaor Keralam is an Indian state located on the Malabar coast of south-west India. It was created on 1 November 1956 by the States Reorganisation Act by combining various Malayalam speaking regions....
. Nazir played one of the heroes alongside SathyanSathyaneshan NadarManuel Sathyaneshan Nadar commonly known by his stage name Sathyan, was an Indian film actor known for his work in Malayalam cinema. He has won the Kerala State Film Award twice and is renowned for his acting skills...
. - Iruttinte AthmavuIruttinte AthmavuIruttinte Athmavu is a 1967 Malayalam film directed by P. Bhaskaran and written by M. T. Vasudevan Nair based on his own story with the same name. It stars Prem Nazir, Sharada, Thikkurissy Sukumaran Nair, P. J. Antony, Ushakumari, Kozhikode Shantha Devi and Baby Rajani in important roles, and...
(The Soul of Darkness) (1966) – Nazir played the mentally challenged Bhrantan Velayudhan in this film based on the classic novel by M. T. Vasudevan NairM. T. Vasudevan NairMadathil Thekkepaattu Vasudevan Nair , popularly known as MT, is an Indian author, screenplay writer and film director. He was born in Kudallur, a small village in the present day Palakkad District, which was under the Malabar District in the Madras Presidency of the British Raj...
. - PadayottamPadayottamPadayottam is a 1982 Malayalam film directed by Jijo Punnoose, produced by Navodaya Appachan, and starring Prem Nazir, Madhu, Mammootty, Mohanlal and Shankar. It was the first movie in South India to be indigenously shot in the 70 mm film format...
(The Campaign) (1982) – Its story was inspired by Alexandre Dumas classic novel The Count of Monte CristoThe Count of Monte CristoThe Count of Monte Cristo is an adventure novel by Alexandre Dumas. It is often considered to be, along with The Three Musketeers, Dumas's most popular work. He completed the work in 1844...
and the treatment of the film was inspired by that of Ben-HurBen-Hur (1959 film)Ben-Hur is a 1959 American epic film directed by William Wyler and starring Charlton Heston in the title role, the third film adaptation of Lew Wallace's 1880 novel Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ. The screenplay was written by Karl Tunberg, Gore Vidal, and Christopher Fry. The score was composed by...
. - Vida Parayum MunpeVida Parayum MunpeVida Parayum Munpe is a 1981 Malayalam language film written by John Paul, directed by Mohan, and produced by Innocent. Prem Nazir essays the lead role in the critically acclaimed and commercially successful film. His performance also won great appreciation. Nazir was conferred the Special Jury...
(Before saying Good Bye) (1981) – Nazir received a special jury award for this film in the 1981 Kerala State Film AwardKerala State Film AwardThe Kerala State Film Awards are the most prestigious film awards for a motion picture made in Kerala. The awards have been bestowed by Kerala State Chalachitra Academy since 1998 on behalf of the Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Kerala, India....
. - Ayalvasi Oru Daridravasi (Neighbour The Pauper!) (1986) – A comedy film by PriyadarshanPriyadarshanPriyadarshan is an Indian film director, producer, and screenwriter. In a career spanning over two decades, Priyadarshan has directed over 80 films in several Indian languages including Malayalam, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu...
, Nazir performed as an middle-aged father. - DhwaniDhwaniDhwani is a 1988 Malayalam musical romance film directed by A. T. Abu. It was the last completed film of veteran actor and evergreen hero of Malayalam cinema Prem Nazir who died on 16 January 1989. The film has music composed by Naushad. It stars Jayaram and Shobhana in the lead roles. Suresh Gopi...
(The Sound) (1988) – This was his last completed film. The film was a hit due to several factors like the excellent performances by Prem Nazir, JayaramJayaramJayaram is an Indian film actor who mainly acts in Malayalam and Tamil films. He is also a chenda percussionist and mimic artist. In 2011, he was awarded the Padma Shri by the Government of India for his contribution towards the arts.-Early life:...
, Shobhana, Suresh GopiSuresh GopiSuresh Gopinathan Nair , often credited as Suresh Gopi , is an Indian film actor who works mainly in Malayalam cinema; he is famous for his roles in police dramas. He is noted for his leading roles as much as his character roles...
, ThilakanThilakanSurendranatha Thilakan , known mononymously as Thilakan, is an Indian actor who works in Malayalam cinema and theatre. He was awarded Padma Shri on 25 January 2009.- Theatre:...
, and the everlasting music by maestro NaushadNaushadNaushad Ali was an Indian musician. He was one of the foremost music directors for Bollywood films, and is particularly known for popularizing the use of classical music in films.His first film as an independent music director was Prem Nagar in 1940...
. - Ningalenne Communistakki (You Made Me a Communist) – The 1970 film was based on the drama of the same name by Thoppil BhasiThoppil BhasiThoppil Bhasi was a Malayalam playwright, screenwriter, and film director. He was associated with the communist movement in Kerala and his play Ningalenne Communistakki is considered to be a groundbreaking event in the history of Malayalam theatre.Thoppil Bhasi was born in Vallikunnam, a small...
. - Odeyil NinnuOdeyil NinnuOdayil Ninnu or Odeyil Ninnu is a 1965 Malayalam film directed by K. S. Sethumadhavan based on the novel of the same name written by P. Kesavadev. The film deals with the life and struggles of a rickshaw puller. It stars Sathyan, Prem Nazir, K. R...
(From the Gutter) – The 1966 film was based on the novel of the same name by P. KesavadevKesavadevP. Kesava Pillai , better known by his pen-name P. Kesavadev, was a novelist and social reformer of Kerala state, South India...
. - MurappennuMurappennuMurappennu is a 1965 Malayalam film written by M. T. Vasudevan Nair, directed by A. Vincent and produced by Shobhana Parameswaran Nair in the banner of Roopavani. It marked the entry of M. T. Vasudevan Nair, the noted Malayalam novelist to Malayalam cinema. The film's story is based on Snehathinte...
(1965) - NadhiNadhi (1969 film)Nadhi is a 1969 Malayalam film directed by A. Vincent, written by Thoppil Bhasi and the story by P.J. Antony. It stars Prem Nazir, Sharada, Madhu, Thikkurissy Sukumaran Nair, Adoor Bhasi, and P.J. Antony in the lead roles. The music was composed by Devarajan...
(The River) (1969) - Triveni
Selected filmography
- Kadathanadan AmbadiKadathanadan AmbadiKadathanadan Ambadi is a Malayalam movie made in 1985 - 86 season, but was released only in 1990 directed by Priyadarshan and featuring Prem Nazir, Mohanlal and Cochin Haneefa...
(1990) - Lal Americayil (1989)
- DhwaniDhwaniDhwani is a 1988 Malayalam musical romance film directed by A. T. Abu. It was the last completed film of veteran actor and evergreen hero of Malayalam cinema Prem Nazir who died on 16 January 1989. The film has music composed by Naushad. It stars Jayaram and Shobhana in the lead roles. Suresh Gopi...
(1988) .... Rajasekharan Nair (His last film) - Ayalvasi Oru DaridravasiAyalvasi Oru DaridravasiAyalvasi Oru Daridravasi is a 1986 Malayalam comedy film written and directed by Priyadarshan, starring Prem Nazir, Nedumudi Venu, Shankar, Sukumari, Seema, Innocent, Mukesh, Menaka, Maniyanpilla Raju, Kuthiravattam Pappu, and Lizy.-Cast:...
(1986) .... Adithya Varma - Manya Mahajanangale (1985)
- Oru Sandesam Koodi (1985)
- Dheivatheyorthu (1985)
- Madhuvidhu Theerum Mumbe (1985)
- Mukhyamanthri (1985)
- Neerariyum Nerathu (1985)
- Orikkal Oridathu (1985)
- Oru Naal Innoru Naal (1985)
- Ozhivukalam (1985)
- Sannaham (1985)
- Shatru (1985)
- Snehicha Kuttathinu (1985)
- Uyirthezhunnelppu (1985)
- Vellarikka Pattanam (1985)
- Alakadalinakkare (1984)
- Amme Narayana (1984)
- Ente Nandinikkutty (1984)
- Inakkilly (1984) .... Zachariah
- Kadamattachan (1984)
- Krishna Guruvayoorappaa (1984)
- Kurissu Yuddham (1984)
- Makale Mappu Tharu (1984)
- Manase Ninakku Mangalam (1984)
- Manithali (1984)
- Ningalil Oru Sthree (1984)
- Oru Thettinte Katha (1984)
- Piriyilla Naam (1984) .... Rajashekharan
- Poomadathu Pennu (1984)
- Vanitha Police (1984)
- Vellam (1984)
- VikatakaviVikatakaviVikatakavi is a 1984 Malayalam film written and directed by Hariharan. It stars Prem Nazir, Madhavi and Mammootty in lead roles. The film's music has been composed by Devarajan with lyrics have been penned by P...
(1984) - Prem Nazirine KanmanillaPrem Nazirine KanmanillaPrem Nazirine Kanmanilla is a 1983 Malayalam crime film starring Vijay Menon, Maniyanpilla Raju and Sreenivasan who play as kidnappers of Prem Nazir. Other supporting actors include Mammootty, Shankar and Nedumudi Venu...
(1983) - Aashrayam (1983)
- Adhipathyam (1983)
- Adhyathe Anuragam (1983)
- Angam (1983)
- Attakkalasam (1983) .... C. K. Balachandran
- Bandham (1983)
- Bhookambam (1983) .... Mahendran
- Chakravalam Chuvannappol (1983)
- Deepaaradhana (1983)
- Ee Yugam (1983)
- Ente Katha (1983)
- Himam (1983)
- Justice Raja (1983)
- Karyam Nissaram (1983) .... Unnithan
- Kodumkattu (1983)
- Mahabali (1983)
- Marakkillorikkalum (1983) .... Madhavan Thampi
- Mortuary (1983/II)
- Onnu Chirikku (1983)
- Oru Madapravinte Katha (1983)
- Passport (1983)
- Prasnam Gurutharam (1983) .... Ramamurthy
- Prathigna (1983)
- Theeram Thedunna Thira (1983)
- Yuddham (1983)
- Aadharsham (1982)
- Aakrosam (1982)
- Aarambham (1982)
- Anga Chamayam (1982)
- Anguram (1982)
- Champalakadu (1982) transliteration)
- Dhrohi (1982)
- Idiyum Minnalum (1982)
- Ivan Oru Simham (1982)
- Jumbulingam (1982)
- Keni (1982)
- Maruppacha (1982)
- Mayilanji (1982)
- Mazhanilavu (1982)
- Naagamadhathu Thampuratti (1982)
- Oru Thira Pinneyum Thira (1982)
- Paanchajanyam (1982)
- Padayottam (1982)
- Ponmudy (1982) .... Diwakaran
- Post Mortem (1982)
- Raktha Sakshi (1982)
- Sree Ayyappanum Vavarum (1982)
- Adima Changala (1981)
- Ariyappedatha Rahasyam (1981) .... Vijayan
- Attimari (1981) .... Soman
- Charam (1981) ... aka The Ash
- Choothattam (1981)
- Druvasangamam (1981)
- Ellaam Ninakku Vendi (1981)
- Irattimadhuram (1981)
- Itha Oru Dhikkari (1981)
- Itihasam (1981)
- Kaahalam (1981)
- Kaattu Kallan (1981)
- Kadathe (1981)
- Kilungaatha Changalakal (1981)
- Kodumudikal (1981)
- Paathira Sooryan (1981)
- Parvathi (1981) .... Urimees
- Raktham (1981)
- Sanchari (1981)
- Sankharsham (1981)
- Thaalam Manasinte Thaalam (1981)
- Thadavara (1981)
- Thakilu KottampuramThakilu KottampuramThakilu Kottampuram is a 1981 Malayalam film directed by Balu Kiriyath. It features Prem Nazir, Sukumaran, Adoor Bhasi, Mohanlal, Jagathy Sreekumar, Mala Aravindan, Sheela, Jalaja, Sreekala, Anjali, Santhakumari, Baby Manjusha, and Sathyachitra.-Cast:...
(1981) - Theekkali (1981)
- Thenum VayambumThenum VayambumThenum Vayambum is a 1981 Malayalam film directed by Ashok Kumar, strarring Prem Nazir, Rani Padmini, Sumalatha and Mohanlal.-Cast:-Soundtrack:The soundtrack for the film was composed by Raveendran with the lyrics penned by Bichu Thirumala....
(1981) - Vida Parayum Mumbe (1981)
- Love in Singapore (1980) .... Premachandran
- Agni Kshethram (1980)
- Air Hostess (1980)
- Anthappuram (1980)
- Chandrahassam (1980)
- Dwik Vijayam (1980)
- Ithikkara Pakky (1980)
- Kari Puranda Jeevithangal (1980)
- LavaLava (1980 film)Lava is a 1980 Malayalam film written by S. L. Puram Sadanandan and directed by Hariharan. It stars Prem Nazir, K. P. Ummer, Madhavi, Sathar, Balan K. Nair, Jayamalini, Oduvil Unnikrishnan, Jagathy Sreekumar and Bahadoor.-Cast:* Prem Nazir as Ramu...
(1980) .... Ramu - Mr. Micheal (1980)
- Naayattu (1980)
- Paallattu Kunjikannan (1980)
- Pralayam (1980)
- Theekkadal (1980) .... Balakrishnan
- Theeram Thedunnavar (1980)
- Indradhanush (1979)
- Iniyum Kaanaam (1979)
- Irumpazhikal (1979)
- Kalam Kaathu Ninnilla (1979)
- Kathir Mandapam (1979)
- Mamangam (1979) .... Chanthunni
- Manava Dharmam (1979)
- Ormayil Nee Maathram (1979)
- Pambaram (1979)
- Pichathy Kuttappan (1979)
- Prabhu (1979)
- Sarpam (1979)
- Tharangam (1979)
- Thirayum Thiravum (1979)
- Vaaleduthaven Vaalaal (1979)
- Vellayani Paramu (1979)
- Vijayanum Veeranum (1979)
- Ward No. 7 (1979)
- Aana Paachan (1978)
- Amarsham (1978)
- Ashtamudi Kayal (1978)
- Bharyayum Kamukiyum (1978)
- Ee Ganam Marakkumo (1978)
- Gaandharvam (1978)
- Jayikkanaayi Janichavan (1978)
- Kadathanattu Maakkam (1978)
- Kalpa Vriksham (1978)
- Kanal Kattakal (1978)
- Kudumbam Namakku Sreekovil (1978)
- Lisa (1978) .... Murali
- Mudhra Mothiram (1978)
- Ninakku Njanum Enikku Neeyum (1978)
- Nivedhyam (1978)
- Paadasaram (1978)
- Prarthana (1978)
- Raju Rahim (1978)
- Sathru Samharam (1978)
- Snehathinte Mukhangal (1978)
- Sundharimarude Swapnangal (1978)
- Thacholy Ambu (1978)
- Tharu Oru Janmam Koodi (1978)
- Vilakkum Velichavum (1978)
- Yagaswam (1978)
- Acharam Ammini Osaram Omana (1977) .... Pakkaran
- Akshaya Paathram (1977)
- Anjali (1977)
- Anugraham (1977)
- Aparaajitha (1977)
- Aparadhi (1977)
- Aval Oru Devaalayam (1977)
- Chathur Vedam (1977)
- Hridhayame Sakshi (1977)
- Innale Innu (1977)
- Ivanente Priyaputhran (1977)
- Kaduvaye Pidicha Kiduva (1977)
- Kanchana Sita (1977)
- Kannappanunni (1977)
- Lakshmi (1977)
- Mini Mol (1977)
- Mohavum Mukthiyum (1977)
- Muttathe Mulla (1977)
- Panchamrutham (1977)
- Parivarthanam (1977)
- Randu Lokam (1977)
- Rathi Manmathan (1977)
- Saghakkale Munottu (1977)
- Samudram (1977)
- Soorya Kanthi (1977)
- Sujatha (1977)
- Tholkkan Enikku Manassilla (1977)
- Thuruppu Gulam (1977)
- Varadhakshina (1977)
- Veedue Oru Swargam (1977)
- Vishukkani (1977)
- Aayiram Janmangal (1976)
- Agnipushpam (1976)
- Ajayanum Vijayanum (1976)
- Ammini Ammavan (1976)
- Amrudha Vahini (1976)
- Chennai Valarthiya Kutty (1976)
- Chirikudukka (1976)
- Chottanikkara Amma (1976)
- Kamadhenu (1976)
- Kanyadanam (1976)
- Kayamkulam Kochunniyude Maghan (1976)
- Light House (1976)
- Mailanum Mathevanum (1976)
- Ozhukkinethire (1976)
- Paarijatham (1976)
- Panchami (1976)
- Pick Pocket (1976)
- Prasadam (1976)
- Pushpa Sarem (1976)
- Rajayogam (1976)
- Seemantha Puthran (1976)
- Themmadi Vellappan (1976)
- Thulavarsham (1976)
- Vanadevatha (1976)
- Vazhi Vilakku (1976)
- Aaranya Kaandum (1975)
- Abhimanam (1975)
- Alibaba and Forty-one Thieves (1975)
- Ashthami Rohini (1975)
- Ayodhya (1975)
- Babu Mon (1975)
- Chattambi Kalyani (1975)
- Cheenavala (1975)
- Chief Guest (1975)
- Chumadu Thangai (1975)
- Dharmakshetre Kurukshetre (1975)
- Hello Darling (1975)
- Kottaram Vilakkanundu (1975)
- Love Marriage (1975)
- Manishada (1975)
- Neela Ponman (1975)
- Padmaragam (1975)
- Palaazhi Madhanam (1975)
- Picnic (1975)
- Pravaham (1975)
- Priyamulla Sophia (1975)
- Pulivalu (1975)
- Rasaleela (1975)
- Sammanam (1975)
- Sindhu (1975)
- Soorya Vamsam (1975)
- Thiruvonam (1975)
- Thmamara Thoni (1975)
- Tourist Bungalow (1975)
- Arakkallan Mukkalkkallan (1974)
- Aswathy (1974)
- Ayalathe Sundari (1974)
- Bhoomi Devi Pushpiniyayi (1974)
- Chakravakam (1974)
- Chanchala (1974)
- Chandrakantham (1974)
- College Girl (1974)
- Durga (1974)
- Honeymoon (1974)
- Neela Kannukal (1974)
- NelluNellu (1974 film)Nellu is a 1974 Malayalam film directed by Ramu Kariat based on the award-winning novel of the same name by P. Valsala. The film is about the tribal people of the Wayanad hills in the deep Kerala forests. It stars Prem Nazir and Jayabharathi in the lead roles...
(1974) .... Raghavan Nair - Night Duty (1974)
- Paathiravum Pakalvelichavum (1974)
- Pancha Thanthram (1974)
- Pattabhisekam (1974)
- Rajhamsam (1974)
- Rehasya Rathri (1974)
- Saptha Swarangal (1974)
- Sethu Bandhanam (1974)
- Suprabhatham (1974)
- Thacholi Marumakan Chandu (1974)
- Thumbolarcha (1974)
- Achani (1973)
- Agnathavasam (1973)
- Angathattu (1973)
- Azhakulla Saleena (1973)
- Bhadradeepam (1973)
- Chukku (1973)
- Darshanam (1973)
- Dharmayudham (1973)
- Divyadharsanam (1973)
- Football Champion (1973)
- Interview (1973)
- Kaalachakram (1973)
- Ladies' Hostel (1973)
- Manase (1973)
- Pacha Nottukal (1973)
- Padmavyooham (1973)
- Panchavadi (1973)
- Panitheeratha Veedu (1973)
- Pavangal Pennungal (1973)
- Police Ariyaruthe (1973)
- Ponnapuram Kotta (1973)
- Poymughangal (1973)
- Sasthram Jayichu Manushyan Thottu (1973)
- Thaniniram (1973)
- Thenaruvi (1973)
- Thiruvabharanam (1973)
- Thottavadi (1973)
- Urvashi Bharathi (1973)
- Veendum Prabatham (1973)
- Aadhyathe Katha (1972)
- Aaradi Manninte Janmi (1972)
- Anveshanam (1972)
- Aromalunni (1972)
- Brahmachari (1972)
- Devi (1972)
- Gandharava Kshetram (1972)
- Manthrakodi (1972)
- Manushya Bandhangal (1972)
- Maram (1972) .... Ibrahim
- Maravil Thirivu Sookshikkuka (1972)
- Maya (1972)
- Mayiladum Kunnu (1972)
- Miss Mary (1972)
- Nirthasala (1972)
- Omana (1972)
- Oru Sundariyude Katha (1972)
- Postmane Kananilla (1972)
- Punarjanmam (1972)
- Pushpanjali (1972)
- Sambhavami Yuge Yuge (1972)
- Taxi Car (1972)
- Anubhavangal Paalichakal (1971)
- C.I.D. Nazir (1971) .... C. I. D. Nazir
- Ernakulam JunctionErnakulam Junction (film)Ernakulam Junction is a 1971 Malayalam film written by actor N. Govindan Kutty, directed by Vijayanarayanan, and starring Prem Nazeer, Vincent, N. Govindankutty, Jeysi, Latheef, Ragini, Sujatha and Sadhana.-External links:...
(1971) - Kalithozhi (1971)
- Lanka Dahanam (1971)
- Marunnattil Oru Malayali (1971)
- Moonupukkal (1971)
- Muthassi (1971)
- Neethi (1971)
- Puthanveedu (1971)
- Shiksha (1971)
- Sumangali (1971)
- Vilakkuvangiya Veena (1971)
- Aa Chithrasalabham Parannotte (1970)
- Ambalaprav (1970)
- Amma Enna Stree (1970)
- Anatha (1970)
- Aranazhikaneram (1970)
- Dattuputhran (1970)
- Ezhuthatha Katha (1970)
- Kakka Thamburatti (1970)
- Kalpana (1970)
- Kurukshetram (1970)
- Lottery Ticket (1970)
- Mindapennu (1970)
- Moodalamanju (1970)
- Nazhikakallu (1970)
- Ningalenne Communistakki (1970)
- Nizhalattam (1970)
- Othenente Makan (1970)
- Palunku Pathram (1970)
- Pearl View (1970)
- Rakta Pushpam (1970)
- Saraswathi (1970)
- Tara (1970)
- Thurukkatha Vathil (1970) .... Bappu
- Triveni (1970)
- Vivaham Swargathil (1970)
- Vivahitha (1970)
- Aalmaram (1969)
- AdimakalAdimakalAdimakal is a Malayalam language film. It was released in 1969. It won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam....
(1969) .... Raghavan - Anaachadanam (1969)
- Ballatha Pahayan (1969)
- Danger Biscuit (1969)
- Jwala (1969)
- KadalpalamKadalpalamKadalpalam is a 1969 Malayalam language film directed by K. S. Sethumadhavan. Sathyan, Prem Nazir, Jayabharathi, Sheela, Bahadoor and Adoor Bhasi star in the lead. The film is an adaptation of the very popular professional stage play of the same name authored by the renowned dramatist K. T....
(1969) - KallichellammaKallichellammaKallichellamma is a Malayalam language film starring Prem Nazir and Sheela. It was released in 1969....
(1969) - Kannoor Deluxe (1969)
- Koottukudumbam (1969)
- MooladhanamMooladhanamMooladhanam |Capital]]) is a 1969 Malayalam film directed by P. Bhaskaran with Prem Nazir, Sathyan, Sharada and Jayabharathi in the lead roles. The film is set amidst the Communist movement in Kerala during the 60s.-Cast:* Prem Nazir* Sathyan...
(1969) - Mr. Kerala (1969)
- NadhiNadhi (1969 film)Nadhi is a 1969 Malayalam film directed by A. Vincent, written by Thoppil Bhasi and the story by P.J. Antony. It stars Prem Nazir, Sharada, Madhu, Thikkurissy Sukumaran Nair, Adoor Bhasi, and P.J. Antony in the lead roles. The music was composed by Devarajan...
(1969) .... Johnny - Padicha Kallan (1969)
- PoojapushpamPoojapushpamPoojapushpam is a Malayalam language film starring Prem Nazeer, Sheela and Thikurissi. It was released in 1969....
(1969) - Rahasyam (1969)
- Rest House (1969)
- Soosi (1969)
- Vilakkapetta Bendhangal (1969)
- Vila Kuranja Manushyan (1969)
- Virunnukari (1969)
- Agni Pareeksha (1968)
- Anchu Sundariakal (1968)
- Asuravithu (1968) .... Govindankutty
- Bharyamar Sookshikkuka (1968)
- Dial 2244 (1968)
- Inspector (1968)
- Kayal Karayil (1968)
- Kodungalluramma (1968)
- Laksha Prabhu (1968)
- Love in Kerala (1968)
- Paadunna Puzha (1968)
- Punnapra Vayalar (1968)
- Thirichadi (1968) .... Kuttappan/Venu
- Thokkukal Katha Parayunnu (1968)
- ThulabharamThulabharamThulabharam is a 1968 Malayalam film, directed by A. Vincent. It is the film adaptaion of a Kerala People's Arts Club play written by Thoppil Bhasi. Thoppil Bhasi also adapted the play for the screen. The film had an ensemble cast, featuring the likes of Prem Nazir, Sharada, Madhu, Sheela,...
(1968) .... Ramu - Velutha KathreenaVelutha KathreenaVelutha Kathreena is a 1968 Malayalam film directed by Sasikumar based on the famous novel of the same name written by Muttathu Varkey. The heroine centric film stars Sheela, Prem Nazir and Sathyan in the lead roles.-Plot:...
(1968) .... Namboothiri - Vidyarthi (1968)
- AgniputhriAgniputhriAgniputhri is a 1968 Malayalam language film directed by M. Krishnan Nair and written by S. L. Puram Sadanandan. It stars Prem Nazeer, T. S. Muthaiah, Adoor Bhasi, T. K. Balachandran, Bahadoor, S. P. Pillai, Jose Prakash, Sheela, Vasantha, T. R. Omana, Aranmula Ponnamma, Meenakumari and Baby Usha....
(1967) .... Rajan - Ashwamedham (1967) .... Mohan
- BalyakalasakhiBalyakalasakhi (film)Balyakalasakhi is a 1968 Malayalam film directed by Sasikumar. It is an adaptation of Basheer's famous novel of the same name....
(1967) - BhagyamudraBhagyamudraBhagyamudra is a 1968 Malayalam language film written by S. L. Puram Sadanandan and directed by M. A. V. Rajendran. It stars Prem Nazeer, Meena Kumari, Adoor Bhasi, Muthukulam Raghavan Pillai, Manavalan Joseph, Kottayam Shantha, Kalavathi, G. K. Pillai, K. R. Vijaya, Sukumari, C. R. Lakshmy, Devaki...
(1967) - Chitramela (1967)
- Cochin ExpressCochin ExpressCochin Express is a 1967 Indian film directed by M. Krishnan Nair.This is an investigative thriller. The main actors in the movie are Prem Nazir and Adoor Bhasi....
(1967) .... Rajan - Collector Malathy (1967)
- Jeevikkan Anuvadikkuka (1967)
- Kaanatha Veshangal (1967)
- Kasavuthattam (1967)
- Kottayam KolacaseKottayam KolacaseKottayam Kolacase is a 1968 Malayalam language film directed by K. S. Sethumadhavan. It stars Prem Nazir, Adoor Bhasi and Sheela. Music is by B. A. Chidambaranath....
(1967) - Kudumbam (1967)
- Naadan Pennu (1967)
- Nagareme Nandi (1967)
- N.G.O (1967)
- Ollathu Mathi (1967)
- Paathira Pattu (1967)
- Pareeksha (1967)
- Pooja (1967)
- RamananRamanan (film)Ramanan is a 1967 Malayalam romance film written, directed and produced by D. M. Pottekkat. It is a screen adaptation of Ramanan , a poem by Changampuzha Krishna Pillai. The film stars Prem Nazir and Sheela, the renowned on-screen pair in the lead roles...
(1967) - Swapna Bhoomi (1967)
- Udhyogastha (1967)
- AnarkaliAnarkali (1966 film)Anarkali is a 1966 Malayalam romance film based on the historical love story between Prince Salim and Anarkali. Directed and produced by Kunchacko, the film was a direct adaptation of the 1953 Hindi film of the same name. The film stars Prem Nazir and K. R...
(1966) .... Prince Salim - Iruttinte AthmavuIruttinte AthmavuIruttinte Athmavu is a 1967 Malayalam film directed by P. Bhaskaran and written by M. T. Vasudevan Nair based on his own story with the same name. It stars Prem Nazir, Sharada, Thikkurissy Sukumaran Nair, P. J. Antony, Ushakumari, Kozhikode Shantha Devi and Baby Rajani in important roles, and...
(1966) .... Velayudhan - Kadamattathachan (1966)
- Kalithozhan (1966)
- Kalyana RathriyilKalyana RathriyilKalyana Rathriyil is a Malayalam language film directed by M. Krishnan Nair. It was released in 1966. The music to the film was by Paravur Devarajan.-Music:...
(1966) - Kanaka Chilanga (1966)
- Kanmanikal (1966)
- Koottukar (1966)
- Kunjali MarakkarKunjali Marakkar (film)Kunjali Maraikkar is a 1968 Malayalam language historical film directed by S. S. Rajan and starring Kottarakkara Sreedharan Nair in the title role as one of the Kunjali Maraikkar, the naval chiefs of Samoothiri. The film won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam....
(1966) .... Antonio/Narayana Nair - Pennmakkal (1966)
- Pinchu Hridhayam (1966)
- Poochakkanni (1966)
- Priyathama (1966)
- Station Master (1966)
- Sthanarthi SarammaSthanarthi SarammaSthanarthi Saramma is a 1966 Malayalam film directed by K. S. Sethumadhavan and produced by T. E. Vasudevan....
(1966) - Thilothama (1966)
- Bhoomiyile Malakha (1965)
- Chettathy (1965)
- Devatha (1965)
- Inapravugal (1965)
- Jeevitha Yaathra (1965)
- Kaliyodum (1965)
- Kathirunna Nikah (1965)
- KavyamelaKavyamelaKavyamela is a 1965 Malayalam film written by S. L. Puram Sadanandan and directed by M. Krishnan Nair, starring Prem Nazir and Sheela in the lead roles. The film is best known for the performance by Prem Nazir and songs by Dakshinamoorthy - Vayalar team....
(1965) .... Jayadevan - Kochumon (1965)
- Kuppivala (1965)
- Mayavi (1965)
- MurappennuMurappennuMurappennu is a 1965 Malayalam film written by M. T. Vasudevan Nair, directed by A. Vincent and produced by Shobhana Parameswaran Nair in the banner of Roopavani. It marked the entry of M. T. Vasudevan Nair, the noted Malayalam novelist to Malayalam cinema. The film's story is based on Snehathinte...
(1965) .... Balan - MuthalaliMuthalaliMuthalali is a 1965 Malayalam language film directed by M. A. V. Rajendran. It stars Prem Nazir, Adoor Bhasi and Thikkurissy Sukumaran Nair...
(1965) - Odeyil NinnuOdeyil NinnuOdayil Ninnu or Odeyil Ninnu is a 1965 Malayalam film directed by K. S. Sethumadhavan based on the novel of the same name written by P. Kesavadev. The film deals with the life and struggles of a rickshaw puller. It stars Sathyan, Prem Nazir, K. R...
(1965) .... Gopi - Porter Kunjali (1965)
- Rajamalli (1965)
- Rosy (1965)
- Shakuntala (1965)
- Thankakudam (1965)
- Althaara (1964)
- Aayisha (1964)
- Bhargavi NilayamBhargavi NilayamBhargavi Nilayam is a 1964 Malayalam horror - romance film written by Vaikom Muhammad Basheer and directed by A. Vincent. The film stars Prem Nazir, Madhu and Vijaya Nirmala in the lead roles, and had its story, screenplay and dialogues are written by noted Malayalam writer Vaikom Muhammad...
(1964) .... Sasikumar - Devaalayam (1964)
- Karutha Kai (1964)
- KudumbiniKudumbiniKudumbini is a 1964 Malayalam language film directed by P. A. Thomas. The film received a certificate of merit at the annual National Film Awards....
(1964) - Kutti Kuppayam (1964)
- Oral Koodi Kallanayi (1964)
- Pazhassi RajaPazhassi Raja (1964 film)Pazhassi Raja is a 1964 Malayalam biographical film directed and produced by Kunchako. It is written by wellknown playwright Thikkodiyan and is based on the life of warrior king Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja. It stars Kottarakkara Sreedharan Nair in the title role, and Prem Nazir, Sathyan, Satyapal,...
(1964) - School MasterSchool MasterSchool Master is a Kannada language film, which was simultaneously dubbed as Tamil language film. It was released in 1958.. It was later remade into various other languages including Telugu, Malayalam and Hindi. Movie is classic film starring Dikki Madhavrao, Udaykumar, Sivaji Ganeshan, B. Saroja...
(1964) - Chilamboli (1963)
- Kaattu Mynah (1963)
- Kalayum Kaminiyum (1963)
- Ninamaninja KalpadukalNinamaninja KalpadukalNinamaninja Kalpadukal is a 1963 Malayalam language film directed by N. N. Pisharody and produced by Shobhana Parameswaran Nair. The lead role is played by Madhu, who debuted with this film. The film is based on a novel by Parappurath and portrays the trials the Indo-China war...
(1963) - Sathyabhama (1963)
- Snapaka Yohannan (1963)
- Kaalpadukal (1962)
- Laila MajnuLaila Majnu (1962 film)Laila Majnu is a 1962 Malayalam language romance film directed by P. Bhaskaran and starring Prem Nazir, L. Vijayalakshmi, Sathyan, Thikkurissi, T. S. Muthiah, Chandni, Adoor Bhasi and Kodungalloor Ammini Amma. It was the first Malayalam version of the classic Sufi legend filmed extensively in...
(1962) - Shree Rama PattabhishekamShree Rama PattabhishekamShree Rama Pattabhishekam is a Malayalam language film. It was released in 1962....
(1962) - Gnana Sundari (1961)
- Krishna KuchelaKrishna KuchelaKrishna Kuchela is 1961 Mythological Malaylam film telling the story of Krishna and Kuchelan.The movie was directed and produced by Kunchacko, Starring Prem Nazir, KPAC Sulochana, T S Muthiah.-Cast:* Prem Nazir - Krishnan* T S Muthiah - Kuchelan...
(1961) - Unniyarcha (1961) .... Kunjiraman
- Seeta (1960)
- Thilakam (1960)
- Sahodari (1959)
- Chadarangam (1958)
- Lilly (1958)
- Mariakutty (1958)
- Devasundari (1957)
- Jailpully (1957)
- Padatha PainkiliPadatha PainkiliPadatha Painkili is a 1957 Malayalam social drama film based on the novel of the same name by Muttathu Varkey and directed by P. Subramaniam from a screenplay by Varkey. The film is a social drama that revolves around marriage and dowry problems...
(1957) .... Thankachan - Atmarpanam (1956)
- Avar Unarunnu (1956)
- Manthravadi (1956)
- Aniyathi (1955)
- C.I.D.C.I.D. (1955 film)C.I.D. is a 1955 Indian Malayalam film made for Merryland Studio by director M. Krishnan Nair which stars Prem Nazir, Miss Kumari, Kottarakkara Sreedharan Nair and Kumari Thankam.-Plot:...
- Avakashi (1954)
- Avan Varunnu (1954)
- Balya Sakhi (1954)
- Kidappadam (1954)
- Manasakshi (1954)
- Tandri (1953)
- Achan (1952)
- Visappinte ViliVisappinte ViliVisappinte Vili is a 1952 Malayalam film directed by Mohan Rao and produced by Kunchacko and K. V. Koshi under the banner of K&K Combines. It stars Prem Nazir, Thikkurissy Sukumaran Nair, Kumari Thankam, Pankajavalli, Nanukuttan, Mathappan, S. P. Pillai and Baby Girija. It was the second film in...
(1952) - MarumakalMarumakalMarumakal is a 1952 Malayalam film that marks the acting debut of Prem Nazir. Produced by Paul Kallungal under the banner of M. P. Productions and directed by M. K. Chari, the film stars Prem Nazir in the lead role of the protagonist, and Kedamangalam Sadanandan, T. S. Muthaiah, S. J. Dev,...
(1952)
External links
Videos of his last journey
- http://in.youtube.com/watch?v=DkBnnLfFyOU
- http://in.youtube.com/watch?v=2WSgkHdlkiA&feature=related
- http://in.youtube.com/watch?v=SI0-dHxW-GI&feature=related
- http://in.youtube.com/watch?v=cyx7QEeVaxY&feature=related