As Prime Minister Narendra Modi turns 75 today, a biopic called Maa Vande has been announced to show his life and journey, but there’s a twist. Instead of a Bollywood superstar, it’s Malayalam actor Unni Mukundan who will play the lead role. Known for his powerful performances and the recent hit Marco, Unni will now be seen stepping into the shoes of one of India’s most influential leaders. So, who exactly is Unni Mukundan, and how did he rise to fame in Malayalam cinema? 

Who is Unni Mukundan: Early life and background

As per Unni’s official website, Unni Mukundan was born on September 22, 1987, in Thrissur, Kerala, to Mukundan Nair and Roji Mukundan. He has an elder sister named Karthika. Though his family is from Kerala, he spent part of his childhood in Ahmedabad. He graduated in English Literature and Journalism from Prajyoti Niketan College, Pudukad, before entering films.

Unni Mukundan’s acting debut

Unni began his acting career in 2011 with the Tamil film Seedan, starring Dhanush. He made his Malayalam debut with Bombay March 12 alongside Mammootty, earning several awards for his performance as a newcomer.

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How did Unni Mukundan rise to fame in Malayalam cinema? 

The 2012 film Mallu Singh became a turning point in Unni’s career, making him a household name. He went on to star in films like Ezham Suryan, I Love Me, and Ithu Pathiramanal, showing his versatility as an actor.

Unni Mukundan: Achievements

Unni Mukundan has made his mark not just in Malayalam cinema, but also in Tamil and Telugu films. He’s a multi-talented artist, an actor, singer, lyricist, and producer. Over the years, he has earned accolades like the Youth Icon Award, Best New Face, Best Actor, Best Actor in a Negative Role, and Best Star Singer. 

Beyond acting, he has stepped into film production. His dedication and versatility have firmly established him as one of the leading stars in Malayalam films today.

Unni Mukundan success in Telugu cinema

In 2016, Unni debuted in Telugu cinema with Janatha Garage, one of the highest-grossing Telugu films that year. He also starred alongside Anushka Shetty in Bhaagamathie, which was a commercial success. His 2022 Malayalam film Malikappuram earned him critical acclaim and strengthened his status as a leading actor.

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Unni Mukundan: Marco and recent work

2024 was a landmark year for Unni with the release of Marco, a violent action thriller directed by Haneef Adeni. Playing the lead role, Unni’s performance helped the film cross Rs 100 crore at the box office. Although he decided not to participate in the sequel due to controversy over the violence in the story, Marco marked a major success in his career.

Maa Vande: Stepping into Narendra Modi’s role

Unni Mukundan will now play Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Maa Vande. Sharing the announcement on X, he wrote, “A man’s story that rises beyond battles… to become a revolution for the ages. #MaaVande it is. Wishing the Honourable Prime Minister @Narendramodi Ji a very Happy Birthday. May glory be revived and brighter things await.”

The film will be written and directed by Kranthi Kumar C.H. and produced by Veer Reddy M. under Silver Cast Creations. It will focus on Modi’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the world’s most influential leaders. This biopic gives Unni a chance to reach audiences beyond South Indian cinema.