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Manju Warrier age, husband, family, biography, wiki and more

Manju Warrier stands as one of Malayalam cinema’s most talented and influential actresses, known for her powerful performances and remarkable versatility. She has captivated audiences through her intense dramatic roles and earned recognition for her dedication, artistic vision, and comeback success. From her debut in Sakshyam in 1995 to her current status as the Lady Superstar of Malayalam cinema, Manju Warrier has consistently demonstrated exceptional talent throughout her career spanning nearly three decades.

Manju Warrier is a 47-year-old Indian actress, producer, classical dancer, and playback singer with an estimated net worth of Rs 142 crore as of 2025. Born on September 10, 1978, in Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu, Manju rose to fame through her exceptional performances in the 1990s and made a remarkable comeback in 2014 after a 15-year hiatus. She is currently one of the highest-paid actresses in Malayalam cinema and continues to work on prestigious projects including L2: Empuraan.

Quick Facts About Manju Warrier

Quick Facts Details
Full Name Manju Warrier
Date of Birth September 10, 1978 (Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu, India)
Age 47 years old (as of 2025)
Nationality Indian
Profession Actress, Producer, Classical Dancer, Playback Singer
Net Worth Rs 142 crore / $19 million (2025)
Ex-Spouse Dileep (married 1998-2015)
Children 1 daughter – Meenakshi (born 2000)
Height 163 cm / 5 feet 4 inches
Famous For Lady Superstar of Malayalam Cinema, Record 7 Filmfare Awards South
Languages Malayalam, Tamil, English
Industries Malayalam, Tamil, Hindi

Manju Warrier Early Life and Education

Manju Warrier was born into a traditional Malayali family in Nagercoil city of Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu. Her family originally hails from Pullu village in Thrissur district of Kerala, maintaining strong roots in Malayalam culture despite being born in Tamil Nadu.

Family Background

Family Member Name Profession Details
Father T. V. Madhavan Accountant Worked at Shakthi Finance’s Nagercoil regional office
Mother Girija Madhavan Housewife / Kathakali Artist From Thiruvilwamala, artistic background
Brother Madhu Warrier Actor, Director, Producer Known for Lalitham Sundaram (2022)
Ex-Husband Dileep Actor Married October 20, 1998; Divorced January 2015
Daughter Meenakshi Dileep Student Born 2000, maintains private life

Educational Journey

Period Institution Level Location Details
Primary School CSI Matriculation Higher Secondary School Primary Education Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu Completed early education
Secondary School Chinmaya Vidyalaya Secondary Education Kannur, Kerala After father’s transfer to Kerala
High School Chovva Higher Secondary School Higher Secondary Kannur, Kerala Completed formal education
Dance Training Under Geetha Padmakumar Kuchipudi Classical Dance Kerala Achieved professional level proficiency

After her father received a promotion, the family relocated from Tamil Nadu to Kerala and settled in Kannur district. This move proved significant for Manju’s career, as it brought her closer to the Malayalam film industry. She first appeared on television in the serial Moharavam on Doordarshan before making her film debut at age 17.

Manju Warrier Personal Life and Family

Manju Warrier’s personal life has been marked by both professional success and personal challenges. Her marriage, motherhood, and subsequent divorce became significant chapters in her life story, demonstrating remarkable resilience and strength.

Marriage and Divorce

Event Date Details Impact on Career
Marriage October 20, 1998 Married actor Dileep at Alwaye Sri Krishna Temple Took 15-year break from acting
Motherhood 2000 Daughter Meenakshi born Focused on family life
Stage Return October 24, 2012 Performed Kuchipudi at Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple Beginning of comeback journey
Commercial Return July 2013 Kalyan Jewellers ad with Amitabh Bachchan Public return announcement
Divorce January 2015 Officially divorced from Dileep Full focus on career resurgence
Current Status 2025 Single, living in Thrissur, Kerala Highest-paid Malayalam actress

Daughter Meenakshi

Personal Information Details
Full Name Meenakshi Dileep
Birth Year 2000
Age 25 years old (2025)
Public Profile Maintains very low profile, rarely in media
Education Focused on studies, details kept private
Career Interest Not pursuing acting career
Relationship with Parents Close bond with both parents, co-parented amicably

Manju Warrier currently resides in Thrissur, Kerala, where she maintains a balanced lifestyle between her professional commitments and personal interests. She is known for her dedication to classical dance, bike riding adventures, and active social media presence where she connects with millions of fans.

Manju Warrier Career and Achievements

Manju Warrier’s career is remarkable for two distinct phases – her meteoric rise in the 1990s and her triumphant comeback in 2014. She became one of the highest-paid Malayalam actresses during her first stint, acting in 20 films between 1995-1999, and repeated that success after her 15-year hiatus.

Career Phase 1: The Golden Era (1995-1999)

Complete Filmography – Early Career

Year Film Title Role Co-Stars Significance
1995 Sakshyam Smitha Suresh Gopi Film debut at age 17
1996 Sallapam Lead Role Dileep Major breakthrough, later married co-star
1996 Thooval Kottaram Devaprabha Varma Jayaram, Sukanya Ran for 300 days in theatres
1996 Ee Puzhayum Kadannu Anjali Dileep Won Kerala State Film Award for Best Actress
1996 Dilliwala Rajakumaran Lead Role Jayaram Commercial success
1996 Kaliveedu Lead Role Jayaram Established her versatility
1997 Aaraam Thampuran Lead Role Mohanlal Blockbuster, Filmfare Award nomination
1997 Kaliyattam Thamara Suresh Gopi Won Filmfare Award for Best Actress
1997 Kudamattom Lead Role Dileep Popular family entertainer
1997 Irattakuttikalude Achan Lead Role Jayaram Family drama
1997 Krishnagudiyil Oru Pranayakalathu Lead Role Jayaram Romantic drama success
1997 Sammanam Lead Role Suresh Gopi Drama
1998 Summer in Bethlehem Lead Role Suresh Gopi, Jayaram Biggest hit before marriage
1998 Kanmadam Lead Role Mohanlal Won Filmfare Award for Best Actress
1998 Daya Lead Role Lal Directed by M.T. Vasudevan Nair, critically acclaimed
1998 Pranayavarnangal Lead Role Suresh Gopi Romantic drama
1999 Pathram Devika Suresh Gopi Won Filmfare Award, highest-grossing film of 1999, ran 250+ days
1999 Kannezhuthi Pottum Thottu Lead Role Biju Menon National Film Award – Special Mention, last film before hiatus

Career Phase 2: The Triumphant Comeback (2014-Present)

Comeback Films (2014-2025)

Year Film Title Role Director Awards / Impact
2014 How Old Are You? Nirupama Rajeev Rosshan Andrrews Blockbuster comeback, Won Filmfare & SIIMA Best Actress
2015 Ennum Eppozhum Lead Role Sathyan Anthikad Reunited with Mohanlal after 17 years
2015 Rani Padmini Lead Role Aashiq Abu Critical acclaim, celebrates female friendships
2015 Jo and the Boy Animator Rojin Thomas Experimental role
2016 Vettah Lead Role Rajesh Pillai Won NAFA 2017 Best Actress
2016 Karinkunnam 6’s Lead Role Deepu Karunakaran Won NAFA 2017 Best Actress
2017 C/O Saira Banu Saira Banu Antony Sony Won NAFA 2018 Best Actress
2017 Udaharanam Sujatha Sujatha Phantom Praveen Won Kerala Film Critics Award 2017 & NAFA 2018
2017 Villain Dr. Neelima Mathew B. Unnikrishnan With Mohanlal, Vishal
2018 Aami Kamala Das Kamal Biopic, Won Filmfare & Asia Vision Awards 2019
2018 Mohanlal Mohanlal Fan Sajid Yahiya Comedy role, praised for comic timing
2018 Odiyan Prabha V. A. Shrikumar Menon Fantasy drama, highest opening Kerala box office
2019 Lucifer Priyadarshini Ramdas Prithviraj Sukumaran ₹200+ crore, Won SIIMA 2021, 3rd highest-grossing Malayalam film
2019 Asuran Pachaiyammal Vetrimaaran ₹100+ crore, Tamil debut opposite Dhanush
2019 Prathi Poovankozhi Lead Role Rosshan Andrrews Revenge thriller, universally praised
2021 The Priest Lead Role Jofin T. Chacko With Mammootty
2021 Chathur Mukham Lead Role Ranjeet Kamala Sankar Horror thriller
2021 Marakkar: Lion of the Arabian Sea Subaida Priyadarshan Period epic with Mohanlal
2022 Lalitham Sundaram Lead Role Madhu Warrier With Biju Menon, brother directed
2022 Meri Awas Suno Dr. Reshmi Padath Prajesh Sen Thriller
2022 Jack N Jill Parvathy Santosh Sivan With Kalidas Jayaram
2022 Amriki Pandit Shubha Dhananjay Shankar Hindi debut with R. Madhavan
2023 Thunivu Kanmani H. Vinoth With Ajith Kumar (Tamil), action thriller
2023 Ayisha Ayisha Aamir Pallikal Lead role
2023 Vellaripattanam K.P. Sunantha Mahesh Vettiyar Drama
2024 Vettaiyan Thara T. J. Gnanavel With Rajinikanth (Tamil)
2024 Viduthalai Part 2 Mahalakshmi Vetrimaaran Tamil
2024 Footage Lead Role Saiju Sreedharan Found footage thriller
2025 L2: Empuraan Priyadarshini Ramdas Prithviraj Sukumaran Sequel to Lucifer

Upcoming Projects

Film Title Role Director Status
Mr. X Lead Role Manu Anand Post-production
Untitled with Kunchacko Boban Lead Role TBA Pre-production
L3 Priyadarshini Ramdas TBA In Development (Lucifer franchise)

Manju Warrier Awards and Recognition

Manju Warrier holds the distinction of being the most-awarded Malayalam actress with a record seven Filmfare Awards South for Best Actress. She is the only Malayalam actress to win the Filmfare Award for Best Actress four consecutive times from 1996 to 1999.

Complete Awards List

Year Award Category Film Significance
1996 Kerala State Film Award Best Actress Ee Puzhayum Kadannu First major state award
1996 Filmfare Awards South Best Actress (Malayalam) Ee Puzhayum Kadannu First Filmfare Award
1997 Filmfare Awards South Best Actress (Malayalam) Aaraam Thampuran & Kaliyattam Second consecutive Filmfare
1998 Filmfare Awards South Best Actress (Malayalam) Kanmadam Third consecutive Filmfare
1999 National Film Award Special Mention Kannezhuthi Pottum Thottu Prestigious national recognition
1999 Filmfare Awards South Best Actress (Malayalam) Pathram Fourth consecutive Filmfare (Record)
2014 Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award Kuchipudi Dance N/A First recipient for Kuchipudi in Kerala
2014 Filmfare Awards South Best Actress (Malayalam) How Old Are You? Fifth Filmfare after comeback
2015 South Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA) Best Actress (Malayalam) How Old Are You? Comeback film recognition
2017 Kerala Film Critics Association Award Best Actress Udaharanam Sujatha Critical acclaim
2017 North American Film Awards (NAFA) Best Actress Karinkunnam 6’s & Vettah International recognition
2018 North American Film Awards (NAFA) Best Actress (Popular) Udaharanam Sujatha & C/O Saira Banu Continued international acclaim
2018 Asia Vision Awards Best Actress Aami Biopic performance
2019 Filmfare Awards South Best Actress (Malayalam) Aami Sixth Filmfare Award
2021 South Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA) Best Actress Lucifer Seventh major award for blockbuster

Special Recognition

Recognition Details
Lady Superstar Popularly referred to as the Lady Superstar of Malayalam Cinema
Record – Consecutive Filmfare Wins Only Malayalam actress to win Filmfare Awards four consecutive times (1996-1999)
Record – Total Filmfare Wins Most Filmfare Awards South for Best Actress (Malayalam) – 7 awards
Film Companion Disruptor Named disruptor for portraying bold women who defy traditional roles
Kalathilakam (Youth Festival) Won twice at Kerala Youth Festival for classical dance
Women in Cinema Collective Founding member of organization for women workers in Malayalam film industry

Manju Warrier Net Worth and Lifestyle

Manju Warrier’s estimated net worth stands at Rs 142 crore (approximately $19 million) as of 2025, making her one of the wealthiest actresses in Malayalam cinema. Her wealth comes primarily from her successful film career, brand endorsements, and various commercial partnerships.

Income and Earnings

Income Source Amount Range Details
Net Worth Rs 142 crore / $19 million Total estimated wealth (2025)
Film Fee (Malayalam) Rs 50 lakh – Rs 1 crore Per film remuneration
Film Fee (Tamil) Rs 1 crore+ Earned Rs 1 crore for Thunivu (2023)
Brand Endorsements Rs 75 lakh per campaign Per endorsement deal
Industry Status Highest-Paid Currently highest-paid Malayalam actress

Manju Warrier Bike Collection

Manju Warrier is known for her passion for motorcycle riding, inspired by Tamil actor Ajith Kumar. She owns premium bikes and frequently shares her riding adventures on social media.

Bike Model Price Type Purchase Year Details
BMW R 1250 GS Rs 21 lakh Adventure Tourer February 2023 Primary bike, purchased after Ladakh trip with Ajith Kumar
Two-Wheeler License N/A License 2023 Obtained at age 44, inspired by Ajith Kumar

Bike Collection Story

Manju Warrier’s journey into motorcycle riding began during the filming of Thunivu with Ajith Kumar. She accompanied him on a bike trip to Leh-Ladakh and Kashmir covering 2,500 kilometers in 11 days. The experience transformed her perspective, inspiring her to obtain a two-wheeler license at age 44 and purchase the BMW R 1250 GS. She frequently practices off-road riding and shares her learning journey on social media, demonstrating that age is no barrier to pursuing new passions.

Manju Warrier Car Collection

Vehicle Model Type Details
Mini Cooper SE Electric Car Daily use vehicle

Brand Endorsements

Brand Name Product Category Role Notable Campaigns
Kalyan Jewellers Jewellery Kerala Regional Brand Ambassador Multiple campaigns with Amitabh Bachchan, “Vishwasam” series
Merriboy Ice Cream Ice Cream Brand Ambassador Regional campaigns
Ujala Detergent Brand Ambassador Television commercials
Samsung Electronics Brand Ambassador Product launches
Sony India Electronics Brand Ambassador Regional campaigns
Lasagu Coaching App Education Technology Brand Ambassador Digital campaigns
Dhathri Ayurvedic Products Brand Ambassador Health and wellness
Kitchen Treasures Spices & Food Products Brand Ambassador Food products
Zee Keralam Television Channel Brand Ambassador Channel promotions
myG Consumer Products Brand Ambassador Regional campaigns

Public Awareness Campaigns

Campaign Organization Purpose
She-Taxi Kerala Government Women’s safety transportation initiative
Kudumbasree Organic Farming Kudumbasree Promote organic farming practices
Naipunnya Development Program Kerala Government Skill development initiative
Kerala State Electricity Board KSEB Energy conservation awareness
Pink Patrolling Kerala Police Women’s safety initiative
Horticorp Kerala State Horticultural Products Development Corporation Horticultural product promotion

Manju Warrier Hobbies and Interests

Beyond her acting career, Manju Warrier is a multifaceted personality with diverse interests ranging from classical dance to adventure sports. Her hobbies reflect her dynamic personality and willingness to explore new experiences.

Primary Hobbies and Skills

Hobby/Interest Skill Level Training/Experience Notable Achievements
Kuchipudi Dance Professional Trained under Geetha Padmakumar Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award 2014, Kalathilakam twice
Bharatanatyam Intermediate Practiced since age 4 Early foundation in classical dance
Motorcycle Riding Advanced Learner Started at age 44 in 2023 Owns BMW R 1250 GS, completed Ladakh trip
Veena (Musical Instrument) Learning Recent pursuit Shares practice videos on social media
Magic Tricks Amateur Learned from magician Muthukad in 2016 Performed at MOM show in Thiruvananthapuram
Writing Published Author Self-expression Published book “Sallapam” (2013) – memoirs

Dance Career Details

Performance Type Date/Period Venue Significance
Kuchipudi Return Performance October 24, 2012 Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple First public performance after marriage, marked comeback beginning
Surya Festival Annual Various venues Regular performances including group performances
Radhe-Shyam (Group Performance) Recent Surya Festival First group performance, played Lord Krishna
Classical Dance Programs Ongoing Various stages Active performer in classical dance circuit

Interesting Hobby Facts

Manju Warrier learned Kuchipudi from the same teacher as her daughter Meenakshi, making it a shared mother-daughter pursuit. She views dance as a stress-buster and regularly posts practice videos on Instagram. Her motorcycle riding hobby began unexpectedly during the filming of Thunivu when co-star Ajith Kumar invited her on a Himalayan bike tour. The experience proved transformative, leading her to pursue riding seriously at age 44, proving that passion knows no age limit.

Manju Warrier Favorites and Preferences

Category Preference Details
Dance Style Kuchipudi Professional level classical dance, performs regularly
Transportation Preference Motorcycles over Cars Prefers bikes for personal satisfaction and adventure
Role Types Strong, Bold Women Characters Known for choosing roles that challenge traditional female stereotypes
Film Genres Drama, Thriller, Biographical Excels in intense, emotional performances
Social Causes Women’s Empowerment Founding member of Women in Cinema Collective
Lifestyle Philosophy Age is No Barrier Pursues new challenges regardless of age expectations

Lesser Known Facts About Manju Warrier

Beyond the well-known achievements, here are fascinating lesser-known facts about Manju Warrier that reveal interesting aspects of her personality, background, and life experiences.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Manju Warrier made her acting debut at age 17 through a television serial Moharavam on Doordarshan before entering films. She was initially offered the lead role in Mani Ratnam’s Tamil film Alai Payuthey but couldn’t accept due to date conflicts and her sudden marriage decision. This Tamil debut never materialized until 2019 with Asuran, proving good things come to those who wait.

During her first career phase spanning just three years from 1996-1999, Manju earned equal remuneration with leading male actors in Malayalam cinema. This achievement was remarkable for the 1990s when pay disparity was even more pronounced. She acted in 20 films during this brief period, establishing herself as the top heroine before taking her marriage break.

Personal Life Revelations

Manju Warrier nearly died while shooting a suicide scene for the film Sallapam in 1996. She was so involved in the emotional intensity of the scene that she couldn’t move when a train approached. Her co-actor Manoj pulled her away at the right moment, saving her life. She revealed this incident in a 2018 interview, showing how deeply she commits to her roles.

Her classical dance journey took an unexpected turn when she learned Kuchipudi from her daughter Meenakshi’s dance teacher, Geetha Padmakumar. She developed her passion for the dance form only after her daughter started learning, making it a beautiful mother-daughter shared experience that blossomed into professional excellence.

Career Comeback Journey

Manju’s comeback was carefully orchestrated starting with a Kuchipudi performance at Guruvayur Temple in October 2012, followed by the Kalyan Jewellers commercial with Amitabh Bachchan in July 2013. She published her memoir book “Sallapam” in 2013 before finally returning to films with How Old Are You in 2014. This strategic return built anticipation and proved her enduring star power.

She won the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award in 2014 specifically for Kuchipudi, becoming the first person to receive this prestigious award for that particular dance form in Kerala. This honor came the same year as her film comeback, marking a double triumph in both her artistic pursuits.

Adventurous Spirit

Manju Warrier got stuck in a Himachal Pradesh village during heavy rains and floods while shooting a film in 2019. She and her crew had to wait out the weather conditions, demonstrating her commitment to her craft even in challenging situations. This incident showed her dedication extends beyond comfortable studio settings.

Her bike riding journey began at age 44 when Ajith Kumar invited her on a Leh-Ladakh trip during Thunivu filming. They covered approximately 2,500 kilometers in 11 days, riding through rain showers and snowfall. Ajith ensured she had proper safety gear and taught her the first lesson about what to do if they fell. This experience transformed her, leading to obtaining her two-wheeler license and purchasing the BMW R 1250 GS worth Rs 21 lakh.

Unique Talents and Skills

Manju learned magic tricks from renowned magician Muthukad in 2016 and performed them at a show called MOM in Thiruvananthapuram. She is also learning to play the Veena and regularly shares her practice sessions on social media, including a video of playing the Money Heist theme song “Bella Ciao” on the instrument.

She won Kalathilakam twice at the Kerala Youth Festival during her school years, demonstrating early excellence in dance competitions. This foundation in classical arts preceded her film career and continues to be an integral part of her identity.

Film Industry Impact

Manju Warrier is one of the founding members of the Women in Cinema Collective, established in 2017 for the welfare of women workers in the Malayalam movie industry. She actively uses her platform for social causes and women’s empowerment initiatives, extending her influence beyond entertainment.

Film Companion named her a “disruptor” in 2019 for her portrayals of bold, brave women on screen who defy traditional notions of female roles. Her choices consistently challenge stereotypes and provide representation for strong female characters in Malayalam cinema.

Notable Collaborations

Manju Warrier appeared in advertisements for Kalyan Jewellers alongside Bollywood legends Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai, Nagarjuna Akkineni, Prabhu Ganesan, and Shiva Rajkumar. These multi-starrer campaigns showcased her pan-Indian appeal and established her as a credible brand ambassador across linguistic boundaries.

Frequently Asked Questions About Manju Warrier

What is Manju Warrier’s net worth?

Manju Warrier’s estimated net worth is Rs 142 crore (approximately $19 million) as of 2025, primarily from her successful film career, brand endorsements, and commercial partnerships.

How old is Manju Warrier?

Manju Warrier is 47 years old, born on September 10, 1978, in Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu, India.

Is Manju Warrier married?

Manju Warrier was married to actor Dileep from October 20, 1998, to January 2015. They divorced after 17 years of marriage and have one daughter together, Meenakshi. She is currently single and living in Thrissur, Kerala.

What bike does Manju Warrier own?

Manju Warrier owns a BMW R 1250 GS adventure tourer motorcycle worth approximately Rs 21 lakh. She purchased it in February 2023 after being inspired by actor Ajith Kumar during their Ladakh bike trip.

How many Filmfare Awards has Manju Warrier won?

Manju Warrier has won a record seven Filmfare Awards South for Best Actress (Malayalam), making her the most-awarded Malayalam actress in this category. She is also the only Malayalam actress to win four consecutive Filmfare Awards from 1996 to 1999.

What is Manju Warrier famous for?

Manju Warrier is best known as the Lady Superstar of Malayalam Cinema, famous for her powerful performances in films like Kannezhuthi Pottum Thottu, How Old Are You, Lucifer, and Asuran. She is also renowned for her remarkable 15-year comeback after marriage and her record-breaking award wins.

How tall is Manju Warrier?

Manju Warrier is 163 cm (5 feet 4 inches) tall.

What are Manju Warrier’s hobbies?

Manju Warrier’s hobbies include Kuchipudi classical dance (professional level), motorcycle riding (owns BMW R 1250 GS), playing the Veena (learning), magic tricks, and writing. She is also passionate about women’s empowerment and social causes.

What is Manju Warrier’s charge per film?

Manju Warrier charges between Rs 50 lakh to Rs 1 crore per Malayalam film. For Tamil films, she earns Rs 1 crore or more, having received Rs 1 crore for her role in Thunivu (2023) with Ajith Kumar.

Which was Manju Warrier’s comeback film?

Manju Warrier made her comeback to films after 15 years with How Old Are You (2014), directed by Rosshan Andrrews. The film was a critical and commercial success, earning her the Filmfare Award and SIIMA Award for Best Actress.

Does Manju Warrier have children?

Yes, Manju Warrier has one daughter, Meenakshi Dileep, born in 2000. Meenakshi is 25 years old as of 2025 and maintains a very private life, focusing on her studies rather than pursuing an acting career.

What dance form does Manju Warrier practice?

Manju Warrier is a professional Kuchipudi dancer trained under renowned guru Geetha Padmakumar. She won the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award in 2014 for Kuchipudi, becoming the first recipient for this dance form in Kerala. She also practiced Bharatanatyam from age 4.

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