Get to know Saju Navodaya, a prominent figure in Malayalam cinema and television, best known for his comedic roles and participation in Bigg Boss Malayalam 2. This comprehensive biography delves into his personal and professional life, offering insights into his journey to fame.
Wiki/Biography
Saju Navodaya was born on Friday, October 14, 1977 (age 45 years as of 2022), in Udayamperoor, Kochi, Kerala. His zodiac sign is Libra. He completed his schooling at S. N. D. P. Higher Secondary School, Nadakkavu in Thrippunithura, Kochi, Kerala, followed by graduation from Sree Rama Varma Govt. Sanskrit College, Tripunithura, Kerala.
Physical Appearance
- Height (approx.): 6’ 0”
- Eye Colour: Black
- Hair Colour: Black
Family, Caste & Wife
Saju hails from a humble farming family. His father is Pappanikunnel Thankappan, and his mother is Manka. He has nine siblings, one of whom is Chetan Suresh. His wife, Resmi, is a classical dance teacher whom he met while running his dance school, ‘Miracle’, in Udayamperoor. They married on November 1, 2001, the day after his brother’s wedding. The couple do not have children.
Career
Saju’s career began as a mimicry artist, performing in local Kochi clubs. Manoj Guinness, a renowned mimicry artist, invited him to join his troupe, ‘Cochin Navodaya,’ where he adopted the stage name Saju Navodaya. His mimicry skills quickly gained popularity, leading to performances both within India and internationally.
His television debut as a comedian was in 2009 with Comedy Stars Season 1. His memorable portrayal of ‘Pashanam Shaji’ in various reality shows solidified this character as his stage persona. He’s appeared in numerous TV comedy shows, including Comedy Super Nights 2 (2013), Tamaar Padaar (2014), and Nalla Best Family (2019).
His film debut was in 2014 with Mannar Mathai Speaking 2. He’s since acted in several Malayalam films, such as Acha Dhin (2015), Aadupuliyattam (2016), Achayans (2017), Kalyanam (2018), and March Randam Vyazham (2019). He landed his first lead role in the 2018 film Karinkannan. He also debuted as a singer in 2016 with the song ‘Manja Kattil Pokande’ from Aadupuliyattam. In 2020, he participated in Bigg Boss Malayalam 2.
Awards & Honours
| Year | Award | Category |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Ramu Karyat Film Awards | Best Comedian |
| 2016 | Asianet Comedy Awards | Most Promising Actor |
Style Quotient
Saju is known for his appreciation of fine things. He owns a Toyota car and a Royal Enfield Classic 350 (a gift from his wife).
Favourite Things
- Sport(s): Cricket and Football
- Food: Beef
Facts/Trivia
- His real name is Pappanikunnel Thankappan Saju.
- He is popularly known as ‘Pashanam Shaji’ by his fans.
- He was highly active in extracurricular activities during school.
- In the late 90s, he directed several college dramas, winning prizes at Ernakulam district youth festivals.
- He won ‘Comedy Festival,’ a mimicry troupe reality show on Mazhavil Manorama.
- He married at 24 and worked as a painter to support his family.
- He is sometimes mistaken for Kerala DGP Lokanath Behera due to their similar appearances.
- He’s a member of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA).
- In 2019, he announced his debut as a writer and director with the Malayalam film ‘Panavally’.
- His hobbies include dancing and playing cricket.
- He has openly discussed being typecast in his acting roles, acknowledging the challenges and opportunities this presents.
