Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 3 Contestants Manikuttan Biography
From Kayamkulam Kochunni to Bigg Boss Winner: The Inspiring Journey of Manikuttan
Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 3 Contestants: Manikuttan Biography
Thomas James, better known by his stage name Manikuttan, is an accomplished Indian actor who has made significant contributions to the Malayalam film industry. Born on March 2, 1986, Manikuttan gained widespread recognition for his role as Kayamkulam Kochunni in the 2004 television serial of the same name. His versatile acting skills and charming persona have earned him a dedicated fanbase and numerous accolades, including winning the title of Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 3 in 2021.
Early Life and Background
Thomas James, known to his fans as Manikuttan, was born to parents James and Eliyamma in Nalumukku, a locality near Kudappanakunnu and Peroorkada in Trivandrum, Kerala, India. He attended St. Mary’s Higher Secondary School, Pattom, Trivandrum, and pursued a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) degree at Mahatma Gandhi College, Thiruvananthapuram. His early life in the culturally rich state of Kerala played a significant role in shaping his artistic inclinations and career path.
Acting Debut
Manikuttan’s acting debut came with the television series Kayamkulam Kochunni, which aired on Surya TV in 2004. His portrayal of the legendary character Kayamkulam Kochunni was highly acclaimed, and it established him as a promising actor in the Malayalam television industry. This role was a stepping stone that led him to more significant opportunities in both television and cinema.
Entry into Malayalam Cinema
Manikuttan’s debut film was Varnachirakukal, where he played the lead role of Balu. Although it was his campus film Oru Peelekanenta Oormakke, taken by Mahatma College, Thiruvananthapuram in 2004, that marked his first significant appearance on the big screen, it was his performance in the Malayalam film Boyy Friennd (2005), directed by Vinayan, that truly launched his film career.
Over the years, Manikuttan has acted in numerous films, showcasing his versatility and talent. Some of his notable works include:
- Mamangam (2019)
- Marakkar: Lion of the Arabian Sea (2021)
These roles not only highlighted his acting prowess but also solidified his status as a prominent figure in the Malayalam film industry.
Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 3
In February 2021, Manikuttan entered the third iteration of the reality game show Bigg Boss Malayalam, hosted by the iconic actor Mohanlal on the Asianet channel. His participation in the show garnered wide acceptance and admiration from viewers for his genuine personality and strategic gameplay.
Despite the show being halted due to the pandemic after its 96th episode, a winner was selected through public voting. On July 24, 2021, Manikuttan was declared the winner of Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 3 at the Grand Finale conducted at EVP Film City, Chennai. His win, coupled with the “Entertainer of the Season” award, was a testament to his popularity and the strong impression he made on the audience.
Career Highlights
Television Serials
Manikuttan has had an illustrious career in television, with significant roles in serials like:
- Black and White (2004, Asianet)
- Kayamkulam Kochunni (2004–2007, Surya TV) – as Kayamkulam Kochunni
- Devi Mahathmyam (2008, Asianet)
Other Television Shows
Manikuttan’s charm and versatility have also made him a favorite in various other television shows:
- Idea Star Singer Season 4 (2009, Asianet) – Guest
- Asianet Comedy Awards Curtain Raiser (2016, Asianet) – Host
- Super Jodi (2018, Surya TV) – Host
- Rani Maharani (2018, Surya TV) – Host
- Onamamankam (2021, Asianet) – Contestant
- Comedy Stars Season 3 (2021, Asianet) – Celebrity Judge
- Katturumbu 2 (2023, Flowers TV) – Judge
Filmography
Manikuttan’s film career is marked by a variety of roles in movies spanning different genres. Some of his significant film credits include:
- Boyy Friennd (2005) – as Ramesh Prasad
- Mayavi (2007) – as Satheesh
- Chotta Mumbai (2007) – as Sainu
- Elsamma Enna Aankutty (2010) – as Jerry
- Grandmaster (2012) – as Eby Kuriakose
- Thattathin Marayathu (2012) – as Najaf
- Pavada (2016) – as S.I. Suresh
- Oppam (2016) – as Devayani’s brother
- 1971: Beyond Borders (2017) – as Soldier
- Mamangam (2019) – as Moyin
- Marakkar: Lion of the Arabian Sea (2021) – as Mayinkutty
Manikuttan’s versatility as an actor is evident from his ability to adapt to different roles, ranging from lead characters to memorable supporting parts.
Personal Life
Despite his fame, Manikuttan remains grounded and values his privacy. He is known to be close to his family, including his parents James and Eliyamma. His personal life is relatively low-key, and he prefers to keep it away from the public eye.
Manikuttan’s Impact and Legacy
Manikuttan’s journey from a budding actor in a television serial to the winner of Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 3 is truly inspiring. His dedication to his craft, coupled with his ability to connect with audiences, has made him a beloved figure in the Malayalam entertainment industry. His work continues to inspire many aspiring actors and entertainers.
Future Prospects
With a successful career spanning television and cinema, and a significant win in Bigg Boss Malayalam, Manikuttan’s future in the entertainment industry looks bright. Fans eagerly await his upcoming projects, and his continued presence in both television and film promises to bring more memorable performances.
Conclusion
Manikuttan, born Thomas James, is a multifaceted actor whose journey in the Malayalam film industry is marked by notable performances and significant achievements. From his early days as Kayamkulam Kochunni to winning Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 3, his career is a testament to his talent, hard work, and resilience. As he continues to entertain and inspire, Manikuttan remains a cherished figure in the hearts of his fans and a prominent personality in the world of Malayalam cinema.
Name: Thomas James
Other Name: Manikuttan
Evicted: Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 3 – Winner
Season Host: Mohanlal
Network: Asianet
Number of Days: 95
Number of Contestants: 18
Premier Date: 14 February – 20 May 2021
Prize Money:
Other Prizes (if any):
Date of Birth (DOB): March 2, 1986
Birth Place: Peroorkada, Trivandrum, Kerala
Settled Place: Trivandrum, Kerala
Profession/Occupation: Actor
Education: B.Com at Mahatma Gandhi College, Thiruvananthapuram
Parents: James (Father), Eliyamma (Mother)
Siblings:
Spouse: Unmarried
Children:
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