Kalabhavan Navas, the beloved Malayalam actor, mimicry artist, comedian, singer and stage performer, was found dead on the evening of August 1, 2025, in a hotel room at Chottanikkara, Kochi. He was in his early 51st year and had been staying there for a film shoot when hotel staff raised the alarm after he failed to check out as scheduled .
Circumstances of the Death
Hotel employees discovered Navas unresponsive in his room and immediately contacted the authorities and the film production team. According to the hotel owner, Navas was found lying on the floor with the door unlocked, and he was alive when they rushed him to hospital, but doctors declared him dead on arrival.
Initial reports suggest that cardiac arrest may have been the cause of his sudden demise, though officials are waiting for the results of the autopsy scheduled on August 2 at Government Medical College Hospital in Kalamassery before confirming .
Police have confirmed that no suspicious substances or foul play were evident at the scene, and no criminal case is currently being pursued .
A Versatile Performer Remembered
Born in Wadakkanchery, Kerala, Kalabhavan Navas rose to fame as a mimicry artist with the prestigious Cochin Kalabhavan troupe—a training ground for many Malayalam entertainers. He made his film debut in 1995 with Chaithanyam and went on to act in numerous popular Malayalam comedies and character roles, including Mattupetti Machan, Junior Mandrake, Chandamama, Mimics Action 500, One Man Show, Hitler Brothers, Meenakshi Kalyanam, Thillana Thillana, Chattambinadu, Valiyangadi, ABCD: American-Born Confused Desi, John Honai, Mera Naam Shaji, and Detective Ujjwalan, among others .
He was also a familiar face on television, appearing as a host and judge on shows such as Badai Bungalow, Comedy Masters, Comedy Stars, and Thakarppan Comedy .
Navas earned widespread acclaim for his mimicry and comic timing, along with his ability to mimic voices and personalities, becoming a fixture in Kerala’s entertainment industry for nearly 30 years .
Reaction from Industry and Public on death of Kalabhavan Navas
News of his passing stunned fans and colleagues alike. Several leading film personalities, including Dileep, Shaju Sreedhar, Ramesh Pisharody, Kottayam Naseer, Kishore Satya, Beena Antony, Devdath Shaji, Baiju Santosh, Guinness Pakru, and Nandu, rushed to the hospital and shared emotional tributes on social media . Shaju Sreedhar wrote on Instagram, “I can’t believe it…” recalling moments spent with his dear friend Navas.
Fans remembered his soulful rendition of “Vaakapoo Maram” from Comedy Stars Festival, re-sharing the performance and expressing deep sorrow at his loss .
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed his deepest condolences, noting that Navas had upheld progressive and democratic values through his art and added that his passing was a deep loss to the arts community .
Legacy of Kalabhavan Navas
Over his long career, kalabhavan navas carved a special place in the hearts of Malayalee audiences with his comic brilliance, versatile acting, and memorable stage presence. From mimicry and stage shows to films and television, he brought laughter, empathy, and authenticity to every medium.
His journey from the Kalabhavan troupe to becoming a recognized name in comedy films is inspirational. His warm persona, relatable characters, and ability to connect with audiences made him an industry favourite.
He is survived by his wife Rehana, and their three children.
Conclusion
The sudden demise of Kalabhavan Navas is a heartbreaking moment for the Indian entertainment world. As the industry and fans mourn, many await the post-mortem report to confirm the exact cause of death. Meanwhile, tributes continue to pour in for a man whose life was devoted to bringing joy and laughter to so many.
He will be fondly remembered, deeply missed, and his legacy of mimicry, humor, and heartfelt performance will continue to inspire.