Anuraj Manohar

Anuraj Manohar is an Indian director who works in Malayalam cinema, contributing to films and screen projects through his directing work. His craft supports the projects he is involved with, and he has earned credits across feature films and screen productions in the industry. He is known for directing feature films in the Malayalam film industry, including the acclaimed Ishq. Like many who work in this field, he developed his skills through years of hands-on work before wider recognition. Because he works largely away from the public eye, verified details about his early life, education and personal background remain limited in the public domain. His profile is defined chiefly by his professional work in Indian cinema, and this page gathers what is currently and reliably known about his career.

From mechanical engineering in Payyannur to impactful cinema in Kerala, Anuraj Manohar emerged as a bold storyteller in Malayalam filmmaking. Born on March 3, 1989, in Kannur, he began as an assistant director before making his directorial debut with the critically acclaimed Ishq (2019), followed by the powerful socio-political drama Narivetta (2025). This anuraj manohar biography reveals his journey: education, early struggles, family, and his rise as a visionary filmmaker.

Anuraj Manohar was born in Payyannur, Kannur, and pursued his schooling in local institutions before earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Kannur University. Despite family expectations, his passion for storytelling led him to Mumbai and Kerala, where he worked as an assistant director under filmmakers like Lijo Jose Pellissery, B. Unnikrishnan, and others for nearly a decade before debuting with Ishq in 2019—the film launched his career with critical acclaim for addressing social conflict and gender-based norms.

His latest directorial venture, Narivetta (released May 16, 2025), is a political thriller inspired by the 2003 Muthanga tribal protest, featuring Tovino Thomas in a transformative lead role. The film underlines Anuraj's skill at blending social consciousness with emotionally resonant cinema.

Year Film Notes 2019 Ishq Directorial debut; a romantic thriller by Ratheesh Ravi with a social message. 2025 Narivetta Political drama on tribal land rights starring Tovino Thomas, Cheran, and Suraj Venjaramoodu. Upcoming Shekhara Varma Rajavu With Nivin Pauly in lead, explores caste politics and legal drama.

Anuraj’s assistant director credits include films like Pramani, Grandmaster, Pullikaran Staraa, Kuttanadan Marpappa, and Bonsai—providing hands‑on learning before stepping behind the camera himself.

Anuraj Manohar is part of the new wave of Malayalam directors tackling relevant social themes—gender, caste, tribal rights—with sensitivity and intelligence. His ability to combine emotional resonance with cinematic integrity makes his work—from Ishq to Narivetta—significant. Planned future projects continue this trajectory.

With only two films released (Ishq and Narivetta) and more in development, Anuraj Manohar stands as a thoughtful, socially conscious filmmaker. His journey from a mechanical engineer to a director tackling systemic injustice and cultural conflict reflects a rare commitment. As fans await Shekhara Varma Rajavu and beyond—what themes or stories would you like him to explore next? Share your thoughts below!