Who is Shwetha Menon?
Shwetha Menon is a prominent Indian actress, television personality, and former supermodel who has made her mark in multiple film industries, including Malayalam, Hindi, and Telugu. With a career spanning over three decades, she is known for breaking stereotypes through bold choices and strong performances, earning both admiration and criticism. She has successfully transitioned from glamorous roles to intense character portrayals, making her a versatile and respected name in Indian cinema.
Shwetha Menon Biography
Attribute | Details |
Full Name | Shwetha Menon |
Date of Birth | April 23, 1974 |
Age | 51 years (as of 2025) |
Birthplace | Chandigarh, India |
Hometown | Valanchery, Kerala |
Nationality | Indian |
Religion | Hinduism |
Zodiac Sign | Taurus |
Profession | Actress, Model, TV Presenter |
Debut Film | Anaswaram (Malayalam, 1991) |
Years Active | 1991 – present |
Known For | Rathinirvedam, Kalimannu, Bigg Boss 7 |
Marital Status | Married |
Husband | Sreevalsan Menon |
Children | 1 (Daughter – Sabaina Menon) |
Languages Known | Malayalam, Hindi, English, Tamil |
Current Residence | Kochi, Kerala |
Shwetha Menon Early Life
Shwetha was born into a Malayali family with military roots. Her father, T.V. Naranankutty, was in the Indian Air Force, which led the family to move across different cities during her childhood. Her mother, Sarada Menon, played a key role in her upbringing. Shwetha completed her schooling at Kendriya Vidyalaya No.1, East Hill, Kozhikode.
Shwetha Menon Education
Shwetha pursued her graduation from Maharaja’s College, Ernakulam, where she also participated in various fashion and cultural events. Her early exposure to modeling and beauty contests sowed the seeds for her future in glamor and cinema.
Shwetha Menon Relationship
Shwetha Menon’s personal life has often been in the spotlight, both for her bold choices and dignified responses to challenges:
- First Marriage: She was earlier married to model Bobby Bhonsle, but the marriage ended in divorce.
- Current Husband: In 2011, she married Sreevalsan Menon, a media professional and journalist. Their relationship has remained strong and private, away from constant media scrutiny.
- Children: The couple has a daughter named Sabaina Menon, born in 2012. Interestingly, Shwetha chose to film her real-life childbirth for the film Kalimannu, merging her personal and professional life in a groundbreaking way.
Shwetha is known to be a fiercely protective and loving mother, often seen attending events with her daughter and husband. She frequently speaks about the importance of balancing career and motherhood in interviews.
Modeling & Pageant Success
Before she became a household name in films, Shwetha built a strong foundation in modeling:
- Femina Miss India Asia Pacific 1994 – Winner
- Femina Miss India 1994 – 2nd Runner-up (behind Sushmita Sen and Aishwarya Rai)
- Gladrags Supermodel Contest – Finalist
Her pageant achievements opened doors in Bollywood and the fashion industry, where she collaborated with several renowned brands and designers.
Shwetha Menon Career
Malayalam Film Debut (1991)
- Made her film debut in Anaswaram alongside Mammootty.
Entry into Bollywood (1995–2005)
- Worked in Hindi films like Ishq, Bandhan, Asoka, and Maqbool.
- Often cast in glamorous roles or item numbers.
Malayalam Cinema Reinvention (2006–Present)
- Returned to Malayalam cinema with meaningful, character-driven roles.
- Notable Films:
- Paleri Manikyam – National recognition
- Salt N’ Pepper – Commercial success
- Rathinirvedam – A remake of a 70s classic
- Kalimannu – Controversial film featuring her real childbirth
- Paleri Manikyam – National recognition
Awards & Accolades
- Kerala State Film Awards – 2 Wins
- Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Malayalam
- South Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA) – Nominated
Television Career
Shwetha has successfully hosted and judged several TV shows:
- Veruthe Alla Bharya (Host)
- Star Wars (Anchor)
- Guest appearances in numerous reality and talk shows.
Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 7 – Shwetha Menon’s Entry
Shwetha Menon made a dramatic wildcard entry in Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 7, which aired in 2025. She entered the house in a regal and powerful avatar, earning the title “Queen Alexandra” during her introduction. Her presence brought a wave of excitement and unpredictability to the show, as she is known for her strong opinions, articulate speech, and fearless attitude.
Her arrival shifted group dynamics and intensified the competitive spirit in the house. As a veteran celebrity with decades of experience in the media, Shwetha offered both mentorship and confrontation, sparking debates, alliances, and occasional controversies inside the house. Her stint showcased her confidence, grace under pressure, and ability to hold her ground amidst intense discussions
Shwetha Menon Controversies
Over the years, Shwetha Menon has found herself amidst several controversies, many stemming from her bold and unconventional choices:
1. Kalimannu (2013) – Real Childbirth on Screen
The film Kalimannu, directed by Blessy, featured Shwetha’s actual delivery scene. While the film aimed to celebrate motherhood, it stirred public debate and criticism from women’s rights groups and politicians, who claimed it violated privacy and cultural sensibilities. Shwetha defended the film as an artistic choice and an ode to motherhood.
2. Sexual Harassment Allegation (2013)
During a public event in Kerala, Shwetha accused a high-profile politician of inappropriate touching. The incident sparked massive media coverage. Though the case was later withdrawn after an apology, it highlighted her courage in confronting harassment publicly.
3. Bold Film Roles
Her performances in films like Rathinirvedam and Kalimannu invited criticism for their sensual and bold nature. Critics accused her of crossing boundaries, while supporters hailed her for challenging conservative norms in Malayalam cinema.
Despite the controversies, Shwetha Menon has consistently maintained a dignified stance, using her platform to discuss women’s rights, freedom of expression, and body autonomy.
Shwetha Menon Net Worth Table
Source | Estimated Value |
Net Worth (2025) | ₹30 Crore approx. (~$3.6M) |
Monthly Income | ₹5–8 Lakhs (estimated) |
Major Income Sources | Films, TV shows, Endorsements |
Real Estate & Assets | Owns properties in Kerala & Mumbai |
Brand Endorsements | Beauty & wellness brands, Jewelry |
Shwetha Menon Social Media Handles
Platform | Username / Handle | |
@shwetha_menon | ||
@ShwethaMenonOfficial | ||
Twitter (X) | @MenonShwetha | |
YouTube | N/A |
Shwetha Menon Physical Appearance
Attribute | Details |
Height | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) |
Weight | Approx. 65 kg |
Eye Color | Black |
Hair Color | Black |
Body Type | Curvy & Fit |
Skin Tone | Wheatish |
Distinct Feature | Sharp facial features & commanding presence |
Interesting Facts About Shwetha Menon
- Former Miss India Finalist: Shwetha Menon was a finalist in the Miss India pageant in 1994 and also won the Miss Bangalore title earlier.
- Bollywood Beginnings: Before becoming a star in Malayalam cinema, she appeared in several Bollywood films, including Ishq, Asoka, and Maay.
- Controversial Childbirth Scene: She made headlines by allowing her real-life childbirth to be filmed for the Malayalam movie Kalimannu, a bold move never done before in Indian cinema.
- Award-Winning Actress: She has won multiple Kerala State Film Awards, including Best Actress for Paleri Manikyam and Salt N’ Pepper.
- TV Personality: Apart from films, she has hosted popular shows like Star Challenge and judged several reality shows.
- Legal Controversies: She once filed a molestation case against a politician, which drew national attention. She later withdrew the case.
- Entry in Bigg Boss Malayalam 7: Shwetha made a grand re-entry into mainstream media by joining Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 7 (2025) as a celebrity contestant.
- Versatile Linguist: She is fluent in Malayalam, English, Hindi, Tamil, and has even worked in Telugu and Kannada films.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Who is Shwetha Menon?
Shwetha Menon is an Indian actress, model, and television presenter known for her work in Malayalam, Hindi, and Tamil cinema. She’s also a former beauty pageant contestant.
Q2. What is Shwetha Menon famous for?
She is known for her bold roles, the film Kalimannu where her real childbirth was shown, and her performances in Rathinirvedam, Salt N’ Pepper, and Paleri Manikyam.
Q3. Is Shwetha Menon married?
Yes, she is married to Sreevalsan Menon, a journalist, and they have one daughter named Sabaina.
Q4. Has Shwetha Menon won any awards?
Yes, she has won multiple Kerala State Film Awards, including Best Actress twice.
Q5. Did Shwetha Menon join Bigg Boss Malayalam?
Yes, she participated in Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 7 (2025) as a celebrity contestant.
Q6. What controversies has she been involved in?
She was involved in a molestation allegation against a politician, and controversy around the filming of her childbirth for a movie.
Q7. What is her net worth?
As of 2025, her estimated net worth is around ₹30 crore (~$3.6 million).
Q8. Does she still act in movies?
Yes, she continues to work selectively in Malayalam cinema and appears on television shows.
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