In a film industry where stardom is often handed down through legacy or glamor, Soubin Shahir has earned his place through sheer talent, versatility, and authenticity. From a humble start behind the camera to becoming one of Malayalam cinema’s most respected actors and directors, his journey is nothing short of inspiring.
From Assistant Director to Screen Presence
Soubin began his cinematic journey in 2003 as an assistant director, working with some of Malayalam cinema’s greats like Siddique and Amal Neerad. His behind-the-scenes experience gave him a solid foundation — one that would soon propel him into the limelight.
He made his acting debut in 2013 with Annayum Rasoolum but rose to fame with a charming and comedic role in Premam (2015). Since then, his expressive eyes, quirky timing, and natural screen presence have made him a household name.
Sudani from Nigeria: A Game Changer
It was in 2018 that Soubin proved his acting prowess with Sudani from Nigeria, where he played a kind-hearted football club manager. The role won him the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor, firmly establishing him as more than just a comedic performer.
Parava: Director’s Vision
Soubin took a bold leap into direction with Parava in 2017 — a film rooted in his Fort Kochi childhood. The film was praised for its raw storytelling, emotional depth, and stunning visuals. It also won him accolades as a director, showing the industry he was a true all-rounder.
Kumbalangi Nights to Romancham: Range Redefined
From the emotionally complex Kumbalangi Nights to the horror-comedy Romancham, Soubin has shown incredible range. His performances are real, grounded, and relatable — making him one of the most trusted names in Malayalam cinema today.
Manjummel Boys & Pan-Indian Presence
In 2024, Soubin starred in and co-produced Manjummel Boys, a massive box office hit grossing over ₹200 crores. While the film’s success brought accolades, it also brought controversy in the form of a financial dispute — which Soubin addressed publicly, calling it a civil disagreement and expressing willingness to resolve it legally.
Despite the setback, Soubin’s career continued to grow. In 2025, he joined the Tamil film Coolie alongside Rajinikanth, Nagarjuna, and Shruti Haasan, marking his entry into pan-Indian cinema.
More Than an Actor
Soubin is known for his simplicity off-screen and his dedication to craft on-screen. He’s not just an actor or director — he’s a storyteller. Whether behind the camera or in front of it, he brings honesty and heart to every project.
Personal Life
Soubin married Jamia Zaheer in 2017, and the couple shares a son. A lover of luxury bikes, tattoos, and road trips, Soubin balances his personal passions with a grounded, down-to-earth lifestyle.
Career Highlights at a Glance
| Year | Film/Project | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Annayum Rasoolum | Actor (Debut) |
| 2015 | Premam | Breakthrough role |
| 2017 | Parava | Director |
| 2018 | Sudani from Nigeria | Lead Actor (Award Winner) |
| 2019 | Kumbalangi Nights | Critically acclaimed role |
| 2023 | Romancham | Horror-comedy hit |
| 2024 | Manjummel Boys | Actor & Producer |
| 2025 | Coolie (Tamil) | Pan-India entry |
Final Thoughts
Soubin Shahir is not just a name — he’s a force redefining Malayalam cinema. From gritty, heartfelt performances to visual storytelling as a director, he represents a new wave of Indian talent that blends creativity, humility, and vision.
As he now steps onto bigger platforms like Coolie, his fanbase is only expected to grow across India. One thing is certain — wherever he goes, Soubin brings soul to the screen.
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