Name: Soubin Shahir
Profession: Actor, Director, Producer
Born: October 12, 1983 (Fort Kochi, Kerala, India)
Nationality: Indian
Known for: Premam, Sudani from Nigeria, Kumbalangi Nights, Parava, Manjummel Boys
Biography:
Soubin Shahir is a critically acclaimed Indian actor, director, and producer, celebrated for his versatile contributions to Malayalam cinema. Born and raised in Fort Kochi to renowned assistant director and production controller Babu Shahir, Soubin was exposed to the world of filmmaking from a young age.
After completing his education in Kochi, he embarked on his cinematic journey as an assistant director in 2003, learning his craft under legendary filmmakers such as Fazil, Siddique, and Amal Neerad.
Soubin made his first onscreen appearance in a small role in “Kaiyethum Doorath” (2002), but it was with “Annayum Rasoolum” (2013) that he truly began his acting journey. His breakthrough arrived when he charmed audiences with his unforgettable comic timing as PT Sir in “Premam” (2015), a performance that made him a household name in Kerala.
Esteemed for his ability to shift between comedic and dramatic roles, Soubin has since starred in a string of successful films, including memorable turns in “Charlie” (2015), “Maheshinte Prathikaaram” (2016), and “Kumbalangi Nights” (2019), where his nuanced portrayal of Saji earned widespread critical acclaim.
2018 was a landmark year, as Soubin delivered a career-defining lead role in “Sudani from Nigeria,” which won him the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor and the Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actor (Malayalam). Known for his subtle, layered performances, he has become a key figure in the Malayalam New Wave.
Soubin expanded into direction with “Parava” (2017), a coming-of-age drama praised for its realism and fresh narrative style. As a producer, he achieved historic success with “Manjummel Boys” (2024), which became the highest-grossing Malayalam film ever and the first from the industry to surpass ₹200 crore at the box office.
Beyond the screen, Soubin is a co-partner in Parava Films and is admired for his grounded persona and professional integrity. His personal journey has not been without challenges; in 2025, he faced and rebutted serious allegations of financial impropriety during the phenomenal run of “Manjummel Boys,” remaining transparent and cooperative with ongoing legal matters.
Soubin’s story is not just about cinematic achievement, it is one of resilience, reinvention, and a relentless pursuit of artistic honesty. He is regarded as one of Mollywood’s finest contemporary performers, inspiring a generation of actors with his authenticity and commitment to craft.
Awards and Accolades:
- Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor (2018, Sudani from Nigeria)
- Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actor – Malayalam (2018, Sudani from Nigeria)
- Several honors from international and regional film festivals
Interesting Facts:
- Began his career behind the scenes, assisting on some of Malayalam cinema’s biggest hits before turning to acting.
- Renowned for his understated humor and naturalistic style, especially in films like “Kumbalangi Nights” and “Maheshinte Prathikaaram.”
- Pioneered realistic filmmaking as a director with “Parava” (2017).
- Partner in Parava Films, actively nurturing new talent in the Malayalam film industry.
- Maintains a strong connection to his roots and frequently collaborates with emerging Mollywood directors.
Social Media:
- Instagram: @soubinshahir
- Twitter: N/A
