End of an Era: Beloved Indian Comedian and Mimic Kalabhavan Navas Passes Away at 51

Kalabhavan Navas (1974 – 1 August 2025), the iconic Indian actor, comedian, mimic, and singer, has passed away at the age of 51. Known for his impeccable comic timing and mimicry talent, Navas made a lasting impact in both films and television, especially in the world of Malayalam cinema.

His journey in the entertainment industry began on stage as a mimicry artist, where he quickly rose to fame. It was director Balu Kiriyath who first spotted his potential and introduced him to the big screen through Mimics Action 500 in 1995. He later went on to shine in popular films like Hitler Brothers (1997), Junior Mandrake (1997), Mattupetti Machan (1998), Chandamama (1999), and Thillana Thillana (2003).

Early Life: Humble Beginnings in Wadakkanchery

Born in a small village in Wadakkanchery, Kerala, Navas was raised in a Muslim household. His father, Aboobacker, was a theatre and film actor who appeared in several Malayalam films, while his mother, originally from Ernakulam, was a homemaker. Financial struggles were part of Navas’s early life, as his father’s acting career provided only limited income. He grew up with two brothers — Niyas (elder) and Nisam (younger).

After stepping into the arts, Navas moved to his maternal home in Ernakulam, where he lived for two decades. His elder brother, Niyas Backer, also pursued a successful career as a comic actor in film and television.

Career: From Stage Mimicry to Malayalam Film Stardom

As young boys, Navas and Niyas would visit the film set of Venkalam, directed by Bharathan, a fellow native of Wadakkanchery. There, they started performing skits at artists’ camps, which gradually turned into a passion for mimicry.

Inspired by legends like Jayaram and Zainuddin, Navas honed his craft and eventually joined the renowned troupe Kalabhavan, where he performed professional mimicry shows. After gaining confidence and popularity, the brothers launched their own mimicry group called Cochin Arts.

In 1995, Navas made his acting debut in the film Chaithanyam. He became best known for his comic roles, winning hearts with his expressive performances and timing.

Personal Life: Family, Love and Legacy

Navas was married to Rehana, an actress who had featured in a few films and TV serials. The couple had three children — Naharin, Rihan, and Ridwan. Post-marriage, the family settled in a two-storey home in Choondy, Aluva, which Navas built himself. Later, they moved to a newly constructed house in Nalam Mile, Aluva.

Rehana, originally from Palluruthy, transformed their former home — the upper floor became a boutique, while the ground floor was converted into a nursery school. Their daughter Naharin made her film debut in Confessions of a Cuckoo (2021), continuing her father’s legacy in the arts.

Sudden End: Shocking Death at 51

On 1 August 2025, tragedy struck when Navas was found unconscious in his hotel room in Chottanikkara, shortly after returning from a film shoot. He was immediately taken to a nearby hospital, where he was declared dead. The news left fans and colleagues in deep sorrow.

Kalabhavan Navas was more than just a comedian  he was a true entertainer who could light up any room with his mimicry and laughter. With a career rooted in stage shows, mimicry, Malayalam films, and television, his contributions will never be forgotten. His journey from a small village in Kerala to becoming a household name stands as an inspiration to many.

As Host

• Badai Bungalow
• Rani Maharani

As Judge

• Comedy Masters
• Comedy Stars Season 2
• Thakarppan Comedy

Himself as Guest

• Cinema Chirima
• Onnum Onnum Moonu
• Manam Pole Mangalyam
• Komedy Circus
• Star Ragging
• Idavelayil

TV serials

• Veedu
• Bhagyanakshatram

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