Shiyas Kareem is a name that has become familiar to many fans of Malayalam television and cinema. Known for his tall frame, charming looks, and confident personality, Shiyas first caught public attention as a contestant on Bigg Boss Malayalam in 2018. Since then, he has appeared in several films, walked the ramp for top designers, and built a strong fan base across Kerala and beyond.
But behind the spotlight is a story filled with personal challenges, family bonds, and a journey that reflects both ambition and resilience. From his early days in Kochi to his recent marriage and controversies, Kareem’s life has been anything but ordinary. His story is one of rising fame, public scrutiny, and personal transformation.
Early Life & Background
Shiyas was born in 1990 in Kochi, Kerala, India. As of March 2025, he is approximately 35 years old. His hometown remains Kochi, where he spent most of his early years. What makes his childhood story unique is the fact that his mother was only 16 years old when she gave birth to him. Shiyas has often spoken about how close he is to his mother, calling her his best friend and biggest supporter.
Growing up in a modest household, Shiyas faced many challenges. His mother worked hard to raise him and his younger brother, often taking on multiple responsibilities to ensure they had a stable life. Shiyas has shared in interviews that he remembers watching his mother leave for work and feeling inspired by her strength and dedication.
Shiyas Kareem Wiki | BIO
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shiyas Kareem |
| Date of Birth | 1990 |
| Age (as of March 2025) | Approximately 35 years old |
| Birthplace | Kochi, Kerala, India |
| Hometown | Kochi, Kerala, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Religion | Islam |
| Zodiac Sign | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Education | Graduate |
| School | GHSS Cheranalloor Perumbavoor, Kerala |
| College/Institute | Gandhigram Rural Institute, Tamil Nadu |
| Profession | Actor, Model, Reality TV Personality |
| Height (approx.) | 6’ 1” (185 cm) |
| Weight (approx.) | 90 kg (198 lbs) |
| Eye Colour | Brown |
| Hair Colour | Black |
| Body Measurements | Chest: 44 inches, Waist: 34 inches, Biceps: 18 inches |
| Debut (TV) | Bigg Boss Malayalam (2018) |
| Notable Films | Weapon (2024), Salmon 3D (2023), Marakkar (2021), Guardian (2021), Captain (2018) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Dharfa |
| Sibling | Brother – Nibas Kareem |
| Controversies | Arrest in Oct 2023 – Sexual assault and cheating case |
| Legal Status | Interim bail granted by Kerala High Court |
| Net Worth | ₹6 crore INR (approx.) |
| Awards/Titles | Mr. Grand Sea World (2018) – Mr. Popularity, Best Photo Model |
| @shiyaskareem/ |
Family Members
One of the most touching parts of Kareem’s story is his relationship with his mother. Born to her when she was just 16, Shiyas has always seen her as more than a parent. He calls her his motivator, guide, and best friend. In interviews and social media posts, he has shared emotional stories about how she supported him through tough times. In January 2025, Shiyas shared a heartfelt post about his mother’s first flight experience.
Shiyas has a younger brother named Nibas Kareem. While Nibas stays mostly out of the spotlight, he has been a constant presence in Shiyas’s life. The two brothers share a close bond and have supported each other through personal and professional challenges.
Education
Kareem’s educational journey began in his hometown of Kochi, Kerala. He attended GHSS Cheranalloor Perumbavoor, a government school known for its strong academic environment and supportive faculty. During his school years, Shiyas was an active student — participating in sports, cultural events, and class activities.
After completing his schooling, Shiyas moved to Tamil Nadu for higher education. He attended Gandhigram Rural Institute in Chinnalapatti — an institute known for its commitment to rural development and social science learning. Shiyas pursued his graduation here and balanced academics with an emerging interest in modeling and media.
Physical Appearance
One of the first things people notice about Shiyas is his commanding physical presence. Standing tall at 6 feet 1 inch (approx. 185 cm), he carries himself with confidence both on-screen and off. His weight is approximately 90 kg (198 lbs) — giving him a sturdy yet athletic build.
Shiyas has brown eyes that often make an impression on fans and photographers alike. His hair is black, thick, and naturally styled — sometimes kept short, other times slightly grown out for specific film roles. Though he doesn’t frequently share his workout routines, it’s clear from his appearance that Shiyas follows a structured fitness regime. In past interviews, he has hinted at daily workouts, clean eating, and occasional martial arts training.
Bigg Boss Malayalam (2018)
In 2018, Shiyas entered the house of Bigg Boss Malayalam, hosted by superstar Mohanlal. The show was already a massive hit, known for its drama, competition, and emotional storytelling. Shiyas’s entry brought a new energy to the house — confident, bold, and a bit mysterious.
Within days, viewers noticed his straightforward nature. He didn’t shy away from arguments or opinions and made sure his presence was felt. He was equally expressive during tasks and personal conversations, leading to mixed reactions from fellow housemates and fans.
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Major Acting Projects
- Weapon (2024) – Played the role of Virat in this action thriller. The film received moderate reviews and highlighted Shiyas’s physical presence.
- Salmon 3D (2023) – Portrayed Ramdev in this experimental 3D film. Though the movie had a niche audience, it was praised for its visual effects.
- Marakkar: Lion of the Arabian Sea (2021) – Featured alongside legends like Mohanlal and Suniel Shetty. The film was a historical epic and gave Shiyas exposure to a wider audience.
- Guardian (2021) – Played Kiran in this suspense drama. The film was appreciated for its tight storyline and performances.
- Showstopper (2020) – A short film where Shiyas played Arjun Anand. It was a creative project that allowed him to explore deeper emotions.
- Lolans (2018) – A lesser-known film with a low rating, but part of his early career.
- Captain (2018) – Played a South Korean Goalkeeper. His football skills were a key reason for his casting.
- Veeram (2017) – Portrayed a Warrior in this period drama. It marked his debut and was directed by Jayaraj.
Marriage to Dharfa
In early 2025, Shiyas married his long-time friend Dharfa in a grand celebration. The wedding was traditional and attended by close family and friends. Photos from the ceremony went viral, showing the couple in elegant attire and joyful moments.
Shiyas described Dharfa as someone who understands him deeply and supports his dreams. He shared that their bond grew over time and that the decision to marry was mutual and heartfelt.
The wedding also marked a turning point in Shiyas’s personal life. He expressed happiness and gratitude, calling it the beginning of a new chapter. Fans and celebrities congratulated the couple, and the event was covered by entertainment media.
Controversies
In October 2023, Shiyas found himself at the center of a serious legal controversy. Upon arriving at Chennai International Airport from Dubai, he was detained by airport security due to a lookout notice issued by Kerala Police. The notice stemmed from a complaint filed by a 32-year-old female gym trainer at the Chandera Police Station in Kasaragod, Kerala.
The woman alleged that Shiyas had sexually assaulted her multiple times since 2021, under the pretext of marriage. She also claimed that he coerced her into undergoing two abortions and defrauded her of ₹11 lakh, promising to make her a partner in his gym business. The complaint included charges under IPC Sections 376 (rape), 420 (cheating), 417 (deception), and 313 (causing miscarriage without consent).
Following his detention, Shiyas was handed over to the Kasaragod police, and his arrest was officially recorded. However, the Kerala High Court later granted him interim bail, allowing him to remain free while the investigation continued.
Net Worth and Financial Overview
As of March 2025, Kareem’s net worth is estimated to be around ₹6 crore. Shiyas maintains a modest yet stylish lifestyle. He owns a well-furnished home and travels frequently for work and leisure. His wedding celebration and recent family trip to the UAE suggest financial stability and comfort.
Despite the legal issues, Shiyas continues to receive offers and remains active in the entertainment industry. His financial standing reflects years of hard work and strategic choices.
Fitness and Sports Enthusiast
Shiyas is widely known for his love of fitness. His social media is filled with workout videos, gym selfies, and motivational posts. He follows a strict fitness regime and often shares tips with his followers. His dedication to health and wellness has made him a role model for many young fans.
Apart from gym workouts, Shiyas enjoys playing football and cricket. His football skills even helped him land a role in the movie Captain, where he played a South Korean goalkeeper. He also participated in the Celebrity Cricket League (CCL), showcasing his athletic side.
Lesser-Known Facts
- Shiyas Kareem was the only Indian contestant at Mr. Grand Sea World 2018 in Bulgaria.
- He won the titles of Mr. Popularity and Best Photo Model at the same event.
- He was selected for the movie Captain because of his real-life football skills.
- He has judged fashion shows alongside Pearle Maaney and Rajesh Pillai.
- His favorite food is biryani, and his favorite colors are black and grey.
- He once revealed on Bigg Boss Malayalam that he had a long list of girlfriends.
- He is a fitness freak and often shares his workout routines online.
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