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Prem Nazir (born Abdul Khader; 6 April 1926 – 16 January 1989) was an Indian actor known as one of
Malayalam cinema Malayalam cinema, also referred to as Mollywood, is a segment of Cinema of India, Indian cinema dedicated to producing films in the Malayalam, Malayalam language, primarily spoken in Kerala and the Lakshadweep islands. It encompasses both th ...
's definitive leading men of his generation. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential actors in the history of
Indian cinema The cinema of India, consisting of motion pictures made by the Indian film industry, has had a large effect on world cinema since the second half of the 20th century. Indian cinema is made up of various film industries, each focused on p ...
. A popular cultural icon of
Kerala Kerala ( , ) is a States and union territories of India, state on the Malabar Coast of India. It was formed on 1 November 1956, following the passage of the States Reorganisation Act, by combining Malayalam-speaking regions of the erstwhile ...
, Nazir is often referred to as Nithyaharitha Nayakan ("Evergreen Hero"). Nazir began his career as a stage actor and made his film debut with the 1952 film ''
Marumakal ''Marumakal'' () is a 1952 Indian Malayalam-language family drama film directed by M. K. Chari, written by Kedamangalam Sadanandan and produced by Paul Kallungal. The film marks the onscreen debut of Prem Nazir, who played the lead role, and also ...
''. He took on the stage name Prem Nazir on the sets of his second film, ''
Visappinte Vili ''Visappinte Vili'' () is a 1952 Indian Malayalam-language drama 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 ...
'' (1952). Nazir is noted for his performances in films such as ''
Murappennu ''Murappennu'' is a 1965 Malayalam-language drama film directed by A. Vincent and written by M. T. Vasudevan Nair. The film stars Prem Nazir in the lead role with an ensemble supporting cast including Sharada, Madhu, Jyothilakshmi, K. P. Umme ...
'' (1965), ''
Udhyogastha ''Udhyogastha'' is a 1967 Indian Malayalam film, directed by P. Venu and produced by P. K. Devadas and P. S. Das. The film stars Prem Nazir, Sathyan, Madhu and Sharada in the lead roles. The film was scored by M. S. Baburaj. Plot Vimala is ...
'' (1967), ''
Iruttinte Athmavu ''Iruttinte Athmavu'' () is a 1967 Indian Malayalam-language film directed by P. Bhaskaran and written by M. T. Vasudevan Nair based on his own short story of the same name. It stars Prem Nazir and Sharada in lead roles with Thikkurissy Sukuma ...
'' (1967), ''
Kallichellamma ''Kallichellamma'' is a 1969 Indian Malayalam-language film, directed by P. Bhaskaran. It is based on the novel of the same name by G. Vivekanandan. The film stars Prem Nazir, Madhu, Sheela and Adoor Bhasi. It was released on 22 August 1969. S ...
'' (1969), ''
Virunnukari ''Virunnukari'' is a 1969 Indian Malayalam-language film, directed and produced by P. Venu. The film stars Prem Nazir, Madhu, Sheela and Usha. Cast *Prem Nazir as Madhavankutty *Madhu as Sethu *Sheela as Radha *Jayabharathi as Shantha * Ambi ...
'' (1969), ''
Nadhi ''Nadhi'' () is a 2022 Indian Tamil-language romantic action drama film directed by K. Thamaraiselvan. The film stars Sam Jones, Anandhi and Karu Pazhaniappan in the lead roles. It was released on 22 July 2022. Cast Production For his role ...
'' (1969), '' C.I.D. Nazir'' (1971), ''
Anubhavangal Paalichakal ''Anubhavangal Paalichakal'' () is a 1971 Malayalam-language film scripted by Thoppil Bhasi and directed by K. S. Sethumadhavan. It is based on the novel of the same name written by Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai. The film stars Sathyan, Prem N ...
'' (1971), ''
Taxi Car ''Taxi Car'' is a 1972 Indian Malayalam- language detective film, directed and produced by P. Venu. The film stars Prem Nazir, Sadhana, Vijayasree and Vincent in the lead roles. The film had musical score by R. K. Shekhar. Thie film is a s ...
'' (1972), ''
Azhakulla Saleena ''Azhakulla Saleena'' is a 1973 Indian Malayalam-language film, based on the novel of the same name by Muttathu Varkey, directed by K. S. Sethumadhavan and produced by K. S. R. Moorthy. The film stars Prem Nazir, Jayabharathi, Kanchana and Vi ...
'' (1973), '' Nellu'' (1974), ''
Ariyappedatha Rahasyam ''Ariyappedatha Rahasyam'' is a 1981 Indian Malayalam film, directed by P. Venu and produced by Koshi Ninan, John Philip, Koshi Philip and Raji George. The film stars Prem Nazir, Jayan, Jayabharathi and Jose Prakash in the lead roles. The fil ...
'' (1981), ''
Vida Parayum Munpe ''Vida Parayum Munpe'' () is a 1981 Malayalam-language drama film directed by Mohan, written by John Paul and produced by Innocent and David Kachappilli. The film stars Prem Nazir and Nedumudi Venu in lead roles, while Lakshmi, Innocent, Bh ...
'' (1981), ''
Padayottam Padayottam may refer to: * ''Padayottam'' (1982 film), an Indian Malayalam-language epic period drama film * ''Padayottam'' (2018 film), an Indian Malayalam-language black comedy film {{disambiguation ...
'' (1982), and ''
Dhwani ''Dhwani (ധ്വനി)'' (meaning sound, melody or music) is a 1988 Malayalam-language 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 ...
'' (1988). Nazir won the
Kerala State Film Award (Special Jury Award) The Kerala State Film Awards are the film awards for a motion picture made in Kerala. The awards started in 1969 by the Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Kerala and since 1998 the awards have been bestowed by Kerala State Cha ...
for his role as Madhavan Kutty in ''Vida Parayum Munpe''. The
Government of India The Government of India (ISO 15919, ISO: Bhārata Sarakāra, legally the Union Government or Union of India or the Central Government) is the national authority of the Republic of India, located in South Asia, consisting of States and union t ...
honoured him with the
Padma Bhushan The Padma Bhushan (IAST: ''Padma Bhūṣaṇa'', lit. 'Lotus Decoration') is the third-highest civilian award in the Republic of India, preceded by the Bharat Ratna and the Padma Vibhushan and followed by the Padma Shri. Instituted on 2 Januar ...
the third highest civilian honours respectively, for his contribution towards the arts. He died due to
measles Measles (probably from Middle Dutch or Middle High German ''masel(e)'', meaning "blemish, blood blister") is a highly contagious, Vaccine-preventable diseases, vaccine-preventable infectious disease caused by Measles morbillivirus, measles v ...
on 16 January 1989 at the age of 62. Nazir holds the
Guinness World Records ''Guinness World Records'', known from its inception in 1955 until 1999 as ''The Guinness Book of Records'' and in previous United States editions as ''The Guinness Book of World Records'', is a British reference book published annually, list ...
for playing opposite the same heroine in 130 films (with
Sheela Sheela Celine (born 24 March 1945) is an Indian actress and director who appears predominantly in Malayalam cinema. Paired with Prem Nazir, they hold the Guinness World Record for acting in the largest number of films (130) together as heroine ...
), and previously held the record for playing the lead role in a record 720 films. He also holds two other acting records; for acting opposite eighty heroines and for acting in lead roles in 30 films which were released in a single year (1973 and 1977).


Early life

Nazir was born in
Chirayinkeezhu Chirayinkeezhu is a town in the Thiruvananthapuram district in the Indian state of Kerala. It was also the hometown of famous Malayalam film actor Prem Nazir. It is the seat of Chirayinkeezhu taluk. Anjengo Fort The well known Anjengo Fort ( ...
in the princely state of
Travancore The kingdom of Travancore (), also known as the kingdom of Thiruvithamkoor () or later as Travancore State, was a kingdom that lasted from until 1949. It was ruled by the Travancore Royal Family from Padmanabhapuram, and later Thiruvanan ...
(now in
Thiruvananthapuram district Thiruvananthapuram District () is the List of districts of Kerala, southernmost district in the States and union territories of India, Indian state of Kerala. The district was created in 1949, with its headquarters in the city of Thiruvananth ...
of
Kerala Kerala ( , ) is a States and union territories of India, state on the Malabar Coast of India. It was formed on 1 November 1956, following the passage of the States Reorganisation Act, by combining Malayalam-speaking regions of the erstwhile ...
), to Akkode Shahul Hamid and Asuma Beevi on 06 April 1926 in a
Rowther The Rowther (anglicised as ''Irauttar'', ''Rawther, Ravuttar,'' ''Ravutta'', ''Ravuthar, Ravuthamar'') are a distinct Muslim community living largely in the south Indian states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. While some of them are partially descende ...
family. He had two brothers -
Prem Nawas Prem Nawas (born Abdul Wahab) was an Indian actor and producer in Malayalam cinema, and the younger brother of Malayalam cinema actor Prem Nazir. His parents were Shahul Hameed and Asmabeevi. He lost his mother at a very young age, and his fath ...
(Abdul Wahab) - and Ashraf and six sisters - Sulekha, Arifa, Aneesa, Umaiba, Sunaisa and Suhara. His mother died when he was very young, and his father remarried a woman of the same name. He completed his formal education from Kadinamkulam Lower Primary School, Sri Chithiravilasam School,
Thiruvananthapuram Thiruvananthapuram ( ), also known as Trivandrum, is the Capital city, capital city of the Indian state of Kerala. As of 2011, the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation had a population of 957,730 over an area of 214.86 sq. km, making it the ...
, Sanatana Dharma College, Alappuzha, and St. Berchmans College, Changanassery. By the time he completed his education, he had become an experienced drama artist.


Career


Entry into cinema

Prem Nazir had his acting debut as Shylock in the play ''
The Merchant of Venice ''The Merchant of Venice'' is a play by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written between 1596 and 1598. A merchant in Venice named Antonio defaults on a large loan taken out on behalf of his dear friend, Bassanio, and provided by a ...
'' (1951), when he was a student at SB College, Changanacherry. He won the best actor award for this role in the play directed by an English Professor of SB College, Prof. C A. Sheppard. His first film was ''
Marumakal ''Marumakal'' () is a 1952 Indian Malayalam-language family drama film directed by M. K. Chari, written by Kedamangalam Sadanandan and produced by Paul Kallungal. The film marks the onscreen debut of Prem Nazir, who played the lead role, and also ...
'' (1952), directed by S. K. Chari and produced by Paul Kallungal. He was credited as Abdul Khader in this film. He got his career break with ''
Visappinte Vili ''Visappinte Vili'' () is a 1952 Indian Malayalam-language drama 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 ...
'' (1952), his second film, made for K&K Combines (Udaya Studio) by Telugu director Mohan Rao. It was on the set of this movie he was renamed to Prem Nazir by
Thikkurussi Sukumaran Nair Thikkurissy Sukumaran Nair (16 October 191611 March 1997) was an Indian poet, playwright, script writer, lyricist, orator, film director and actor, though he is best known as an actor in Malayalam cinema. He is the recipient of Padma Shri from ...
. Prem Nazir started his career when drama was the most popular visual medium and film making at its infancy. He began acting for the Excel Productions (Udaya Studio) and most of his films were for the Udaya and
Merryland Studio Merryland Studio is an Indian film studio based in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. It was established in 1950 by former Thiruvananthapuram mayor and businessman P. Subramaniam. He produced 70 films, 59 of them directed by himself. He was active b ...
s.


1950s: Rise to stardom

With the arrival of Nazir, there was a new screen personality, a new debonair actor who could be a youth heart throb. Prem Nazir acquired the halo of a romantic hero and a loyal following. His tear-jerkers were very popular with female audiences and soon made him a darling of the masses. He became the first real star of Malayalam cinema. Another factor that assisted Prem Nazir's 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 playing 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.


1960s, 1970s: Golden years

In the late 1950s, 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 Athmavu ''Iruttinte Athmavu'' () is a 1967 Indian Malayalam-language film directed by P. Bhaskaran and written by M. T. Vasudevan Nair based on his own short story of the same name. It stars Prem Nazir and Sharada in lead roles with Thikkurissy Sukuma ...
'' (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 Madath Thekkepaattu Vasudevan Narayanan Nair (15 July 1933 – 25 December 2024) was an Indian author, lecturer, Screenwriter, screenplay writer and film director. He was a prolific and versatile writer in modern Malayalam literature, and was o ...
, 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 acted in the first-ever investigative series in Malayalam cinema '' C.I.D. Nazir'' directed by
P. Venu P. Venu (8 November 1940 – 25 May 2011), was an Indian film director, producer, screenwriter, and lyricist with over 20 films to his name. His directorial venture Udhyogastha in 1967 was the first-ever multi-star cast film of south India. ...
. He has played historical characters based on ''
Vadakkan Pattukal Vadakkan Pattukal () are a collection of Malayalam ballads from the medieval period (12th-20th century). The genre as a whole represents the sentiment of ''vira'', or the heroic, through its depictions of "valour and sacrifice." Contents The s ...
''. ''
Aromalunni ''Aromalunni'' ആരോമലുണ്ണി is a 1972 Indian Malayalam-language film directed and produced by Kunchacko, based on '' Vadakkan Pattukal'', a collection of Northern Ballads of medieval origin. The film stars Prem Nazir, Vijaya ...
'', '' Kannappanunni'', ''
Thacholi Ambu ''Thacholi Ambu'' is a 1978 Indian Malayalam-language historical drama film directed and produced by Navodaya Appachan under Navodaya Studio. It was the first anamorphic CinemaScope film in Malayalam. Starring Prem Nazir in the title role, al ...
'' and ''
Padayottam Padayottam may refer to: * ''Padayottam'' (1982 film), an Indian Malayalam-language epic period drama film * ''Padayottam'' (2018 film), an Indian Malayalam-language black comedy film {{disambiguation ...
'' 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 (; , , ) is a major deity in Hinduism. He is worshipped as the seventh and one of the most popular avatars of Vishnu. In Rama-centric Hindu traditions, he is considered the Supreme Being. Also considered as the ideal man (''maryāda' ...
,
Krishna Krishna (; Sanskrit language, Sanskrit: कृष्ण, ) is a major deity in Hinduism. He is worshipped as the eighth avatar of Vishnu and also as the Supreme God (Hinduism), Supreme God in his own right. He is the god of protection, c ...
and
Ayyappa Ayyappan, also known as Dharmasastha and Manikandan, is the Hindu deity of truth and righteousness. According to Hindu theology, he is described as the son of Shiva and Mohini (the female avatar of Vishnu), thus representing a bridge between Sh ...
. In his movies, Nazir was well known for playing 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 the 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 Celine (born 24 March 1945) is an Indian actress and director who appears predominantly in Malayalam cinema. Paired with Prem Nazir, they hold the Guinness World Record for acting in the largest number of films (130) together as heroine ...
. 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 (born 28 June 1954 as Lekshmi Bharathi) is an Indian actress and two-time recipient of the Kerala State Film Award, Kerala State Film Award for Best Actress and National Film Award – Special Mention (feature film), Nationa ...
and Sharada were also big successes at box office. Prem Nazir pairing with comedian
Adoor Bhasi K. Bhaskaran Nair (1 March 1929 – 29 March 1990), professionally credited by his stage name Adoor Bhasi, was an Indian actor and film director. He was mostly cast as a sidekick to protagonists, particularly Prem Nazir. His comedic roles were w ...
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 Kattassery Joseph Yesudas ( /jeːʃud̪aːs/; born 10 January 1940) is an Indian playback singer and musician who sings Indian classical, devotional and film songs. He is widely considered one of the greatest singers in the history of Indian m ...
was perfect for the audience. Even today many consider the Nazir – Yesudas combination of song sequences remain the best ever on screen. He is quite popularly described as Nithyaharithanayakan (The Evergreen Hero), which does 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 (10 September 1945 – 20 September 2024) was an Indian actress who appeared in Malayalam films and television. She began her career performing in theatre dramas before foraying into cinema. She also acted in TV serials and c ...
has revealed that Prem Nazir was a very good singer, and had training in
Carnatic music Carnatic music (known as or in the Dravidian languages) is a system of music commonly associated with South India, including the modern Indian states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and southern Odisha. It is o ...
.


1980s: Late career

By the beginning of the 1980s, Nazir himself moved into supporting roles. He mostly played supporting roles with
Jayan Krishnan Madhavan Nair (25 July 1939 – 16 November 1980), better known by his stage name Jayan, born as the son of Madhavan Pillai (Kerala title), Pillai and Bharathiyamma in Kollam district, Kollam, was an Indian actor, Officer (armed forc ...
,
Sukumaran E. P. P. Sukumaran Nair (10 June 1948 – 16 June 1997), known mononymously as Sukumaran, was an Indian actor and producer of Malayalam films. Sukumaran became a popular film star in Malayalam cinema during the 1970s. He was considered one o ...
, Shankar and
Soman Soman (or GD, EA 1210, Zoman, PFMP, A-255, systematic name: ''O''-pinacolyl methylphosphonofluoridate) is an extremely toxic chemical substance. It is a nerve agent, interfering with normal functioning of the mammalian nervous system by inhibit ...
. In 1980, he acted in ''
Ariyappedatha Rahasyam ''Ariyappedatha Rahasyam'' is a 1981 Indian Malayalam film, directed by P. Venu and produced by Koshi Ninan, John Philip, Koshi Philip and Raji George. The film stars Prem Nazir, Jayan, Jayabharathi and Jose Prakash in the lead roles. The fil ...
'' directed by P. Venu along with Jayan. In 1981, he played a major supporting role in Mohan's ''
Vida Parayum Munpe ''Vida Parayum Munpe'' () is a 1981 Malayalam-language drama film directed by Mohan, written by John Paul and produced by Innocent and David Kachappilli. The film stars Prem Nazir and Nedumudi Venu in lead roles, while Lakshmi, Innocent, Bh ...
'' that earned him the Kerala State Special Jury Award. His most iconic role till date came in the form of Padayottam released in 1982. Based loosely on the evergreen classic, The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas, Nazir played the titular role of Thamban, a prince who is cheated by his so called dear ones and friends and made a slave in a vessel. How he returns and hunts down those who were responsible for wrecking his life forms the crux of the story. He played his last hero role in '' Vellarikka Pattanam'' (1985) along with Ratheesh. It is also reputed the Nazir missed the National award for best actor by just one vote for role. His second last film was ''
Ayalvasi Oru Daridravasi ''Ayalvasi Oru Daridravasi'' () is a 1986 Indian Malayalam-language comedy film, directed by Priyadarshan starring an ensemble cast of Shankar, Menaka, Mukesh, Prem Nazir, Nedumudi Venu, Sukumari, Seema, and Innocent in the lead roles. Sreeni ...
'' (1986), where he starred with Mukesh, Shankar, Nedumudi Venu, Sukumari and Seema. His last completed film was A. T. Abu's ''
Dhwani ''Dhwani (ധ്വനി)'' (meaning sound, melody or music) is a 1988 Malayalam-language 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 ...
'' (1988), in which he co-starred with
Jayaram Jayaram Subramaniam, (born 10 December 1965), is an Indian actor who works predominantly in Malayalam cinema, in addition to Tamil cinema, Tamil, Telugu cinema, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, Sanskrit, and Bhojpuri language films. He is also a chenda ...
. His last release was
Priyadarshan Priyadarshan Soman Nair (born 30 January 1957) is an Indian film director and screenwriter. He has worked primarily in Malayalam cinema, Malayalam and Hindi cinema, Hindi cinema since 1982, directing over 90 films in multiple Indian languages, ...
's ''
Kadathanadan Ambadi ''Kadathanadan Ambadi'' is a 1990 Indian Malayalam-language sword and sorcery film directed by Priyadarshan and written by Cochin Haneefa. It is a sequel to the 1964 film '' Thacholi Othenan'' and the 1970 film '' Othenente Makan''. The film s ...
'' (1990), in which he co-starred with
Mohanlal Mohanlal Viswanathan (; born 21 May 1960), known mononymously as Mohanlal, is an Indian actor and filmmaker who predominantly works in Malayalam cinema, Malayalam cinema besides also having sporadically appeared in Tamil cinema, Tamil, Hin ...
. In one of his last interviews, he had expressed a desire to direct a film with
Mammootty Muhammad Kutty Panaparambil Ismail (born 7 September 1951), known mononymously by the hypocorism Mammootty (), is an Indian actor and film producer who works predominantly in Malayalam-language films. He has also appeared in Tamil, Telugu, ...
and Mohanlal in the lead.


Popular film genres

Two popular film series initiated by Prem Nazir are the C.I.D series and the Vadakkanpattu series. The former is a group of investigative films by P. Venu in which Nazir played James Bond like protagonists. In most of these movies Nazir teamed with Adoor Bhasi, a famed comedy actor who would accompany Nazir characters in investigations. '' C.I.D. Nazir'' directed by P. Venu, 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 and ''C.I.D Moosa'' with
Dileep Gopalakrishnan Padmanabhan, better known by his stage name Dileep, is an Indian actor, producer, comedian and entrepreneur who predominantly works in the Malayalam film industry. He has also acted in Tamil, Hindi, and Kannada films. He has ...
in the lead. Another 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 Vadakkan Pattukal () are a collection of Malayalam ballads from the medieval period (12th-20th century). The genre as a whole represents the sentiment of ''vira'', or the heroic, through its depictions of "valour and sacrifice." Contents The so ...
'', the trend was continued long after his demise with Nazir in the lead, playing various other characters from Vadakkanpattu.


Personal life


Family

Prem Nazir was married to Habeeba Beevi and they have one son and three daughters. Laila, Rasiya – both older than
Shanavas Shanawas Prem Nazir is an Indian actor who appears in Malayalam film . He is the son of legendary Malayalam actor Prem Nazir (Evergreen Hero of Malayalam Cinema). He has acted in more than 50 Malayalam films. Background Shanawas was born at T ...
. The youngest daughter is Rita. Shanavas's wife Ayisha Beevi is the daughter of the eldest sister of Prem Nazir, Suleikha Beevi. Prem Nazir's son Shanavas acted in few films as well but could not succeed like his father. Third generation of Prem Nazir, Shanavas's son Shameer Khan, acted in a Malayalam film, ''
Uppukandam Brothers Back in Action ''Uppukandam Brothers Back in Action'' is a 2011 Malayalam-language Indian film. It stars Srikanth (in his debut of Malayalam film), Honey Rose and Babu Antony in the main roles. It is a sequel to the 1993 film '' Uppukandam Brothers''. The fil ...
''. Prem Nazir's younger brother Prem Nawas (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 Agniputhri is a 1967 Indian Malayalam-language film, directed by M. Krishnan Nair and produced by Prem Navas. The film stars Prem Nazir, Sheela, T. R. Omana and T. S. Muthaiah. The film had musical score and songs composed by M. S. Baburaj. It ...
, Thulaavarsham, Poojakku Edukatha Pookkal, Neethi'' and ''Keni'', to name a few. Prem Nawas's only son, Prem Kishore has also had a stint with the industry by acting in two Malayalam films – ''Vacation'' and ''Thaskaraputran''. Prem Nawas has the distinction of acting in the first ever colour film made in Malayalam – ''
Kandam Becha Kottu ''Kandam Becha Kottu'' () is a 1961 Indian Malayalam-language drama film directed and produced by T. R. Sundaram under the banner of Modern Theatres. It stars Thikkurissy Sukumaran Nair and Prem Nawas in the lead roles, along with T. S. Mutha ...
''.


Philanthropic work

Prem Nazir, renowned for both his acting prowess and philanthropic endeavors, remains a subject of debate on whether he excelled more as an actor or humanitarian. Widely regarded for his generosity, Nazir treated colleagues, well-wishers, and family with equal kindness. His humanitarian impact became evident posthumously as beneficiaries of his assistance came to light. Nazir's compassion extended to supporting his close friend Jayan, financing the transportation of Jayan's remains following a tragic accident during the shoot of "Kolilakkam." Notably, Nazir played a pivotal role in promoting his film colleagues, demonstrating a sharp memory by instantly recognizing individuals. Collaborating with director M. Sasikumar, he assisted bankrupt producers, aiding them in regaining their prominence in the film industry. Nazir's golden era in Malayalam cinema was characterized by his unparalleled generosity, where he not only contributed to his own success but also facilitated the growth of others in the industry. Beyond his cinematic achievements, Nazir donated an elephant to the Sarkara Devi Temple in Chirayinkil and authored books such as "Enne Thediyethiya Kathapatrangal" detailing the film characters he portrayed and his autobiography, "Anubhvangal Oarmakal." Director and lyricist Sreekumaran Thampi further honored Nazir with the book "Prem Nazir Enna Prema Ganam.


Death

It was during the late 1980s, during a time that Nazir campaigned rigorously for a running candidate in politics, he was admitted to Vijaya Hospital due to duodenal ulcer. Unfortunately, during treatment he contracted measles, which caused his condition to deteriorate further. Nazir died in the early hours of 16 January 1989, aged 62. His body was transported to Thiruvananthapuram, where he was buried at Kattumurakkal Juma Masjid, Chirayinkizhil with full state honours.


Awards

Prem Nazir won his only
Kerala State Film Award The Kerala State Film Awards are the film awards for a cinema of kerala, motion picture made in Kerala. The awards started in 1969 by the Department of Cultural Affairs (Kerala), Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Kerala and sin ...
in 1981; He won
Filmfare Special Award - South ''Filmfare'' is an Indian English-language fortnightly magazine published by Worldwide Media. Acknowledged as one of India's most popular entertainment magazines, it publishes pieces involving news, interviews, photos, videos, reviews, events, ...
for numerous films in 1976 and he won a Special Jury Award for the supporting role he played in the film ''Vida Parayum Munbe''. He was awarded the
Padma Bhushan The Padma Bhushan (IAST: ''Padma Bhūṣaṇa'', lit. 'Lotus Decoration') is the third-highest civilian award in the Republic of India, preceded by the Bharat Ratna and the Padma Vibhushan and followed by the Padma Shri. Instituted on 2 Januar ...
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, also referred to as Mollywood, is a segment of Cinema of India, Indian cinema dedicated to producing films in the Malayalam, Malayalam language, primarily spoken in Kerala and the Lakshadweep islands. It encompasses both th ...
Industry. He has also held the position of
National Film Award The National Film Awards are awards for artistic and technical merit given for "Excellence within the Cinema of India, Indian film industry". Established in 1954, it has been administered, along with the International Film Festival of India ...
jury in
1985 The year 1985 was designated as the International Youth Year by the United Nations. Events January * January 1 ** The Internet's Domain Name System is created. ** Greenland withdraws from the European Economic Community as a result of a n ...
.


Legacy and influence

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 Sathyan and
Jayan Krishnan Madhavan Nair (25 July 1939 – 16 November 1980), better known by his stage name Jayan, born as the son of Madhavan Pillai (Kerala title), Pillai and Bharathiyamma in Kollam district, Kollam, was an Indian actor, Officer (armed forc ...
acting alongside them in 1960s and 1970s respectively. Nazir who began his movie career in the early 1950s, later acted alongside popular future stars like Shankar,
Mammootty Muhammad Kutty Panaparambil Ismail (born 7 September 1951), known mononymously by the hypocorism Mammootty (), is an Indian actor and film producer who works predominantly in Malayalam-language films. He has also appeared in Tamil, Telugu, ...
and
Mohanlal Mohanlal Viswanathan (; born 21 May 1960), known mononymously as Mohanlal, is an Indian actor and filmmaker who predominantly works in Malayalam cinema, Malayalam cinema besides also having sporadically appeared in Tamil cinema, Tamil, Hin ...
by the 1980s. He was a mainstream superstar in Malayalam cinema for over 30 years from the late 1950s to late 1980s. He also has an unofficial recognition of playing a campus character while in his late fifties. Prem Nazir has the distinction of acting with the same heroine; Sheela, in over 100 films. Nazir is generally considered the ultimate romantic hero in Malayalam cinema due to his handsomeness and ease of acting in romantic roles particularly in romantic song sequences. His song sequences combined with the lyrics of
Vayalar Vayalar is a village in Cherthala taluk, Alapuzha district, Kerala state, India. Location Vayalar is 5 km from Cherthala, Kerala. Vayalar is bounded on the east by the Vayalar kayal which is a part of the famous Vembanad backwat ...
, tunes of
Devarajan Paravoor Govindan Devarajan (1927–2006), popularly known as G. Devarajan or Devarajan master, was an Indian music composer and Carnatic singer. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest composers in the history of Indian film music. He s ...
and voice of K.J. Yesudas produced what is called the golden era of Malayalam film songs. Prem Nazir has also appeared in the highest number of dual roles (more than 40) in Indian films and perhaps in world cinema.


Filmography


Important roles


Films in which Nazir played dual roles

Prem Nazir holds the record of playing double roles in more than 40 films of his career. The first movie in which he had played a double role was the historical film, Kunjali Marakkar, directed by SS Rajan. The film won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam. 1 ''
Kunjali Marakkar Kunjali Marakkar was the title inherited by the Admiral of the fleet of the Zamorin, King Samoothiri / Zamorin, the King of Calicut, in present-day Kerala, India. There were four Marakkars whose war tactics defended against the Portuguese Emp ...
'' (1966) as Antonio/Narayanan Nair 2 ''
Udhyogastha ''Udhyogastha'' is a 1967 Indian Malayalam film, directed by P. Venu and produced by P. K. Devadas and P. S. Das. The film stars Prem Nazir, Sathyan, Madhu and Sharada in the lead roles. The film was scored by M. S. Baburaj. Plot Vimala is ...
'' (1967) 3 ''
Virunnukari ''Virunnukari'' is a 1969 Indian Malayalam-language film, directed and produced by P. Venu. The film stars Prem Nazir, Madhu, Sheela and Usha. Cast *Prem Nazir as Madhavankutty *Madhu as Sethu *Sheela as Radha *Jayabharathi as Shantha * Ambi ...
'' (1969) 4 '' C.I.D. Nazir'' (1971) 5 ''
Taxi Car ''Taxi Car'' is a 1972 Indian Malayalam- language detective film, directed and produced by P. Venu. The film stars Prem Nazir, Sadhana, Vijayasree and Vincent in the lead roles. The film had musical score by R. K. Shekhar. Thie film is a s ...
'' (1972) 6 '' Thirichadi'' (1971) as Kuttappan/Venu 7 '' Rahasyam'' (1969) as Babu/K.K.Nair 8 ''Seemantha Puthran '' (1978) as Surendran/Jayadevan 9 '' Makane Ninakku Vendi'' (1971) as Sam/Thomachan 10 ''
Aromalunni ''Aromalunni'' ആരോമലുണ്ണി is a 1972 Indian Malayalam-language film directed and produced by Kunchacko, based on '' Vadakkan Pattukal'', a collection of Northern Ballads of medieval origin. The film stars Prem Nazir, Vijaya ...
'' (1974) as Kunjiraman/Aromalunni 11 ''Gandharvakshethram'' (1974) as Gandharvan/Velayudhan 12 ''
Postmane Kananilla ''Postmane Kananilla'' is a 1972 Indian Malayalam-language film directed by Kunchacko. The film stars Prem Nazir, K. P. Ummer, Vijayasree and KPAC Lalitha. The film's score was composed by G. Devarajan. Cast *Prem Nazir * Krishnapillai * K ...
'' (1973) as Ramu/Aniyan 13 '' Football Champion'' (1976) as Vijayan/ Thakil Veerachami 14 '' Thenaruvi'' (1976) as Rajan/Mannaan. 15 ''Ragapournami'' (1978) as Vinayan/Ajayan 16 ''
Thacholi Marumakan Chandu ''Thacholi Marumakan Chandu'' is a 1974 Indian Malayalam-language film, directed and produced by P. Bhaskaran. The film stars Prem Nazir, Sukumari, Jayabharathi and Srividya. The film had musical score by V. Dakshinamoorthy. Cast *Prem Nazir ...
'' (1980) as Othenan/Kutty 17 ''
Honeymoon A honeymoon is a vacation taken by newlyweds after their wedding to celebrate their marriage. Today, honeymoons are often celebrated in destinations considered exotic or romantic. In a similar context, it may also refer to the phase in a couple ...
'' (1974) 18 ''Mamangam'' (1980) as Marathandan/Kannan 19 ''
Pathiravum Pakalvelichavum ''Pathiravum Pakalvelichavum'' is a 1974 Indian Malayalam-language film, directed by M. Azad and produced by Thayyil Kunjikandan. The film stars Prem Nazir, Jayabharathi, Sankaradi and Sreelatha Namboothiri. The film had musical score by K. Rag ...
'' (1974) 20 ''
Durga Durga (, ) is a major Hindu goddess, worshipped as a principal aspect of the mother goddess Mahadevi. She is associated with protection, strength, motherhood, destruction, and wars. Durga's legend centres around combating evils and demonic ...
'' (1974) as Prof. Damodaran/Ramu 21 '' Kottaaram Vilkkaanundu'' (1975) as Murali 22 ''
Picnic A picnic is a meal taken outdoors (Al fresco dining, ''al fresco'') as part of an excursion, especially in scenic surroundings, such as a park, lakeside, or other place affording an interesting view, or else in conjunction with a public event su ...
'' (1975) as Ravivarma/Rajagopal 23 ''
Pichathikuttappan ''Pichathy Kuttappan'' is a 1979 Indian Malayalam-language film, directed by P. Venu. The film stars Prem Nazir, Jayan, Sheela and Sharada. The film's score was composed by K. Raghavan. Cast * Prem Nazir as Pichathy Kuttappan * Jayan as Ragh ...
'' (1979) 24 '' Aaranyakaantam'' (1979) as Unnikrishnan/Duplicate Unni 25 ''
Ariyappedatha Rahasyam ''Ariyappedatha Rahasyam'' is a 1981 Indian Malayalam film, directed by P. Venu and produced by Koshi Ninan, John Philip, Koshi Philip and Raji George. The film stars Prem Nazir, Jayan, Jayabharathi and Jose Prakash in the lead roles. The fil ...
'' (1981) 26 ''Kadamattathachan'' (1978) as Ravivarma/Kadamattathu Kathanar 27 ''
Ajayanum Vijayanum ''Ajayanum Vijayanum'' () is a 1976 Indian Malayalam-language film, directed by J. Sasikumar and produced by K. N. S. Jaffarsha. The film stars Prem Nazir, Lakshmi, Sukumari, Kaviyoor Ponnamma and Adoor Bhasi. The film has musical score by M ...
'' (1978) as Ajayan/Vijayan 28 '' Paarijatham'' (1976) 29 '' Vanadevatha'' (1976) as Chandran/Suresh 30 '' Chennaaya Valarthiya Kutty'' (1976) as Sreeni/Maranchadi. 31 '' Kannappanunni'' (1981) as Durgadasan/Kannappanunni. 32 ''
Kadathanaattu Maakkam ''Kadathanaattu Maakkam'' is a 1978 Indian Malayalam-language epic-fantasy film directed and produced by Navodaya Appachan under Navodaya Studio. The film stars Prem Nazir, Jayan, Sheela and Sukumari in the lead roles. The film has musical ...
'' (1978) as Nambeeshan/Kannan. 33 ''
Kanalkattakal ''Kanalkattakal'' is a 1978 Indian Malayalam-language action film directed by A. B. Raj and produced by Thomas Abraham. The film stars Prem Nazir, Vincent, K. P. Ummer, Jayabharathi, Adoor Bhasi and Thikkurissy Sukumaran Nair. The film has ...
'' (1979) as Panikkar/Vijayan. 28 '' Aanappaachan'' (1978) as Paachan/Gopi. 29 '' Vijayanum Veeranum'' (1982) as Vijayan/Veeran. 30 '' Anthapuram'' (1981) 31 '' Sanchari'' (1981) as Sumesh/Suresh 32 ''
Post Mortem An autopsy (also referred to as post-mortem examination, obduction, necropsy, or autopsia cadaverum) is a surgical procedure that consists of a thorough examination of a corpse by dissection to determine the cause, mode, and manner of death; ...
'' (1982) as Vikariyachan/C.I.of Police. 33'' Marupacha'' (1982) as PremKumar, Premchandran 34 ''
Ente Katha ''Ente Katha'' (''My Story'') is an autobiography written by Madhavikutty (Kamala Surayya) in the year 1973. She was motivated to write this as she became ill and thought will not survive. The book was controversial and outspoken and had her ...
'' (1983) as Sreekumar/Sankar 35 ''
Justice Raja ''Justice Raja'' is a 1983 Indian Malayalam language film, directed by R. Krishnamoorthy. The film stars Prem Nazir, Menaka, Balan K. Nair and K. R. Vijaya. The film has musical score by Gangai Amaran. The film was a remake of Telugu film '' ...
'' (1983) as Justice Raja/Son of Raja. 36. Muhammadum musthafayum (1978) as Rajan/Babu 37. Rajurahim (1978) as Raju and Rahim 38. Mallanum Mathevanum 39. Anweshanam (1978) as Gopi/Venu 40. Adachangala (1978) as Ravi/Johnny 41. Ammini Ammavan (1977) as Anandhan/Suresh


Films in which Nazir played triple roles

# ''
Ernakulam Junction Ernakulam Junction railway station (also known as Ernakulam South, station code: ERS) is an NSG–2 category List of railway stations in India, Indian railway station in Thiruvananthapuram railway division of Southern Railway zone. It is the m ...
'' (1971) # '' Pushpanjali'' (1972) # '' Amme Narayana'' (1984)


Other important films and characters

* '' Avakashi'' (1954) * ''
Murappennu ''Murappennu'' is a 1965 Malayalam-language drama film directed by A. Vincent and written by M. T. Vasudevan Nair. The film stars Prem Nazir in the lead role with an ensemble supporting cast including Sharada, Madhu, Jyothilakshmi, K. P. Umme ...
'' (1965) * ''
Odeyil Ninnu ''Odayil Ninnu'' (''From the Gutter'') is a Malayalam novel written by Indian author P. Kesavadev in 1942. The protagonist of the novel is a rickshaw-puller named Pappu. The novel is one of the best-known works of Kesavadev. With the appearance ...
'' (From the Gutter) – The 1966 film was based on the novel of the same name by
P. Kesavadev P. Kesava Pillai (20 July 1904 – 1 July 1983), better known by his pen-name P. Kesavadev, was a novelist and social reformer of Kerala, India. He is remembered for his speeches, autobiographies, novels, dramas, short stories, and films. ''Oda ...
. * ''
Iruttinte Athmavu ''Iruttinte Athmavu'' () is a 1967 Indian Malayalam-language film directed by P. Bhaskaran and written by M. T. Vasudevan Nair based on his own short story of the same name. It stars Prem Nazir and Sharada in lead roles with Thikkurissy Sukuma ...
'' (The Soul of Darkness) (1966) – Nazir played the mentally challenged Bhrantan Velayudhan in this film based on the classic novel by
M. T. Vasudevan Nair Madath Thekkepaattu Vasudevan Narayanan Nair (15 July 1933 – 25 December 2024) was an Indian author, lecturer, Screenwriter, screenplay writer and film director. He was a prolific and versatile writer in modern Malayalam literature, and was o ...
. * ''
Nagarame Nandi ''Nagarame Nanni'' is a 1967 Malayalam language film, written by M. T. Vasudevan Nair and directed by A. Vincent. C. S. Venkiteswaran (27 February 2015)"Guiding light of Malayalam cinema" ''The Hindu''. Retrieved 12 December 2017. The film star ...
'' hanks to the City(1967) * ''
Nadhi ''Nadhi'' () is a 2022 Indian Tamil-language romantic action drama film directed by K. Thamaraiselvan. The film stars Sam Jones, Anandhi and Karu Pazhaniappan in the lead roles. It was released on 22 July 2022. Cast Production For his role ...
'' (The River) (1969), ''
Adimakal ''Adimakal'' () is a 1969 Indian Malayalam-language film, directed by K. S. Sethumadhavan and produced by M. O. Joseph. The film stars Sathyan, Prem Nazir, Sheela and Sharada. The film had musical score and songs composed by G. Devarajan. It ...
'' (1969), ''
Kallichellamma ''Kallichellamma'' is a 1969 Indian Malayalam-language film, directed by P. Bhaskaran. It is based on the novel of the same name by G. Vivekanandan. The film stars Prem Nazir, Madhu, Sheela and Adoor Bhasi. It was released on 22 August 1969. S ...
'' (1969) * '' Ningalenne Communistakki'' (You Made Me a Communist) – The 1970 film was based on the drama of the same name by
Thoppil Bhasi Thoppil Bhaskara Pillai, known as Thoppil Bhasi (8 April 1924 – 8 December 1992) was an Indian Malayalam-language playwright, screenwriter, and film director. He was associated with the communist movement in Kerala and his play ''Ningalenne C ...
. * ''
Thriveni ''Thriveni'' () is a 1970 Indian Malayalam-language film directed by A. Vincent and produced by C. V. Sridhar through Chitralaya in their only production in Malayalam. The film stars Sathyan, Prem Nazir, Sharada, Savita G. Thampi, and Kaviyoo ...
'' (1970), '' Thurakkaatha Vaathil'' he Door Never Opens(1970) * ''
Anubhavangal Paalichakal ''Anubhavangal Paalichakal'' () is a 1971 Malayalam-language film scripted by Thoppil Bhasi and directed by K. S. Sethumadhavan. It is based on the novel of the same name written by Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai. The film stars Sathyan, Prem N ...
'' (Experiences and Failures) (1971) – The story of persecutions and suffering of communists in the early days of modern
Kerala Kerala ( , ) is a States and union territories of India, state on the Malabar Coast of India. It was formed on 1 November 1956, following the passage of the States Reorganisation Act, by combining Malayalam-speaking regions of the erstwhile ...
. Nazir played one of the heroes alongside Sathyan. * '' C.I.D. Nazir'' (1971) – A investigative series by
P. Venu P. Venu (8 November 1940 – 25 May 2011), was an Indian film director, producer, screenwriter, and lyricist with over 20 films to his name. His directorial venture Udhyogastha in 1967 was the first-ever multi-star cast film of south India. ...
* '' Vilakku Vangiya Veena'' (1971) * '' Maaya'' (1972), '' Aaradi Manninte Janmi'' he Landlord of 6 feet Earth(1972) * ''
Pani Theeratha Veedu ''Panitheeratha Veedu'' () is a 1973 Indian Malayalam-language film, directed by K. S. Sethumadhavan. The film stars Prem Nazir, Nanditha Bose, Roja Ramani and Jose Prakash. It is an adaptation of Parappurath's 1964 novel of the same name. It wo ...
'' he House never completes(1973), ''Interview'' (1973) * '' Achani'' (1973) * ''
Pathiravum Pakalvelichavum ''Pathiravum Pakalvelichavum'' is a 1974 Indian Malayalam-language film, directed by M. Azad and produced by Thayyil Kunjikandan. The film stars Prem Nazir, Jayabharathi, Sankaradi and Sreelatha Namboothiri. The film had musical score by K. Rag ...
'' idnight & Daylight(1974) * '' Pravaham'' urrent(1975) * ''
Seemantha Puthran ''Seemanthaputhran'' () is a 1976 Indian Malayalam film directed by A. B. Raj and produced by R. S. Sreenivasan. The film stars Prem Nazir, Jayabharathi, KPAC Lalitha and Adoor Bhasi in the lead roles. The musical score was composed by M. K. Ar ...
'' he First Son(1976), '' Themmadi Velappan'' diot ''Velappan''(1976), '' Amrithavaahini'' (1976) * '' Vishukkani'' (1977), '' Randu Lokam'' (1977) * '' Snehathinte Mukhangal'' he Faces of Love(1978) * ''
Asthamikkatha Pakalukal ''Asthamikkatha Pakalukal'' is a 1981 Indian Malayalam film, directed by A. Sheriff and produced by Kurian Varnasala. The film stars Prem Nazir, Jose, Sankaradi and Sukumaran in the lead roles. The film has musical score by A. T. Ummer. Cast ...
'' he Days never Ends(1981) * '' Karipuranda Jeevithangal'' 00th Film Got Outstanding Performance Award(1981) * ''
Vida Parayum Munpe ''Vida Parayum Munpe'' () is a 1981 Malayalam-language drama film directed by Mohan, written by John Paul and produced by Innocent and David Kachappilli. The film stars Prem Nazir and Nedumudi Venu in lead roles, while Lakshmi, Innocent, Bh ...
'' (Before saying Goodbye) (1981) – Nazir received a special jury award for this film in the 1981
Kerala State Film Award The Kerala State Film Awards are the film awards for a cinema of kerala, motion picture made in Kerala. The awards started in 1969 by the Department of Cultural Affairs (Kerala), Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Kerala and sin ...
. * ''
Padayottam Padayottam may refer to: * ''Padayottam'' (1982 film), an Indian Malayalam-language epic period drama film * ''Padayottam'' (2018 film), an Indian Malayalam-language black comedy film {{disambiguation ...
'' (The Campaign) (1982) – Its story was inspired by
Alexandre Dumas Alexandre Dumas (born Alexandre Dumas Davy de la Pailleterie, 24 July 1802 – 5 December 1870), also known as Alexandre Dumas , was a French novelist and playwright. His works have been translated into many languages and he is one of the mos ...
classic novel
The Count of Monte Cristo ''The Count of Monte Cristo'' () is an adventure novel by the French writer Alexandre Dumas. It was serialised from 1844 to 1846, and published in book form in 1846. It is one of his most popular works, along with ''The Three Musketeers'' (184 ...
and the treatment of the film was inspired by that of ''
Ben-Hur Ben-Hur or Ben Hur may refer to: Fiction *'' Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ'', an 1880 novel by American general and author Lew Wallace ** ''Ben-Hur'' (play), a play that debuted on Broadway in 1899 ** ''Ben Hur'' (1907 film), a one-reel silent ...
''. * ''
Ayalvasi Oru Daridravasi ''Ayalvasi Oru Daridravasi'' () is a 1986 Indian Malayalam-language comedy film, directed by Priyadarshan starring an ensemble cast of Shankar, Menaka, Mukesh, Prem Nazir, Nedumudi Venu, Sukumari, Seema, and Innocent in the lead roles. Sreeni ...
'' (Neighbour The Pauper!) (1986) – A comedy film by
Priyadarshan Priyadarshan Soman Nair (born 30 January 1957) is an Indian film director and screenwriter. He has worked primarily in Malayalam cinema, Malayalam and Hindi cinema, Hindi cinema since 1982, directing over 90 films in multiple Indian languages, ...
, Nazir performed as a middle-aged father. * ''
Dhwani ''Dhwani (ധ്വനി)'' (meaning sound, melody or music) is a 1988 Malayalam-language 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 ...
'' (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,
Jayaram Jayaram Subramaniam, (born 10 December 1965), is an Indian actor who works predominantly in Malayalam cinema, in addition to Tamil cinema, Tamil, Telugu cinema, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, Sanskrit, and Bhojpuri language films. He is also a chenda ...
,
Shobhana Shobana Chandrakumar Pillai (born 21 March 1970); known mononymously as Shobana, is an Indian actress and Bharatanatyam dancer, who works predominantly in Malayalam films, in addition to Tamil language, Tamil, Telugu language, Telugu, Hindi lan ...
,
Suresh Gopi Suresh Gopi (born 26 June 1958) is an Indian actor, playback singer, television presenter and politician who is currently serving as the Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas and the Minister of Tourism since June 2024. He was ele ...
,
Thilakan Palappurathu Keshavan Surendranatha Thilakan (15 July 1935 – 24 September 2012) was an Indian film and stage actor who appeared in over 200 Malayalam films. Thilakan was known for his elaborate method acting, realistic and spontaneous appeara ...
, and the everlasting music by maestro
Naushad Ali Naushad Ali (25 December 1919 – 5 May 2006) was an Indian composer for Hindi films. He is widely considered to be one of the greatest and foremost music directors of the Hindi film industry. He is particularly known for popularising the use of ...
.


References


External links

*
Prem Nazeer
at the MSI Movie Database
Extensive reportage of Prem Nazir's death
on
Doordarshan Doordarshan (), abbreviated as DD, is India's State-owned enterprise, state-owned public broadcasting, public television broadcaster. Established by the Government of India on 15 September 1959, it is owned by the Ministry of Information and B ...
(January 16, 1989) * * {{DEFAULTSORT:Nazir, Prem Indian male film actors Male actors from Thiruvananthapuram 1926 births 1989 deaths Kerala State Film Award winners Recipients of the Padma Bhushan in arts Recipients of the Padma Shri in arts Male actors in Malayalam cinema 20th-century Indian male actors