
03/08/2025
Kalabhavan Navas (born Navas Backer in 1974 in Wadakkancherry, Thrissur, Kerala) emerged from a family steeped in performance arts—his father Aboobacker was a respected theatre actor, and his brother Niyas Backer also established himself in Malayalam cinema
He began his artistic journey with mimicry performances, joining the famed Kalabhavan troupe, where he adopted the screen name “Kalabhavan Navas.” Later, together with his brother, he co-founded the stage group Cochin Arts, entertaining audiences across Kerala
In 1995, Navas made his film debut in Chaithanyam and swiftly carved a niche in comedic supporting roles. His notable films include Mimics Action 500, Hi**er Brothers, Junior Mandrake, Mattupetti Machan, Chandamama, and Thillana Thillana He continued acting through the 2000s in films like My Dear Karadi, ABCD: American‑Born Confused Desi, Vettam, John Honai, and Mera Naam Shaji. His final onscreen appearance was in Detective Ujjwalan (2025) after completing the shoot of Prakambanam
On television, he was a popular personality—known for his sharp wit in shows such as Badai Bungalow, where he starred alongside Mukesh, and served as a judge on Comedy Masters, Comedy Stars Season 2, and Thakarppan Comedy (
Tragically, on August 1, 2025, he was found unconscious in his hotel room in Chottanikkara during a film shoot. Though hurried to S.D. Tata Hospital, he was declared dead on arrival. Authorities have hinted at cardiac arrest as the likely cause, with no suspicion of foul play
Mourning poured in—from fans, industry colleagues, and figures including actor Suraj Venjaramoodu, who paid a heartfelt tribute to his friend, and public figures like Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who praised Navas for enriching Kerala’s comedy and mimicry tradition