Shwetha Menon is a prominent Indian actress, model, and television anchor primarily known for her work in Malayalam cinema. With a career spanning over two decades, she has become one of the most versatile and bold performers in the industry. This article covers key aspects of her personal and professional life—including her family, religion, caste, and recent controversies.
Personal Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shwetha Menon |
| Date of Birth | 23 April 1974 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 51 years |
| Place of Birth | Chandigarh, India |
| Current Residence | Kerala, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Religion | Hindu |
| Caste | Nair (Malayali Hindu upper-caste community) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Husband | Sreevalsan Menon (journalist) |
| Daughter | Sabaina Menon (born 2012) |
| Occupation | Actress, Model, Television Anchor |
| Estimated Net Worth | ₹90–95 lakh INR (approximate, based on available public reports) |
Early Life and Background
Born in Chandigarh to a Malayali family, Shwetha Menon hails from the Nair caste, a well-known upper-caste Hindu community in Kerala. Her father served in the Indian Air Force, which led to her early life being spent across different parts of India. She was educated in different states before venturing into modeling and film.
Career Highlights
Shwetha started her career as a model and was a finalist in Miss India 1994, the year Aishwarya Rai and Sushmita Sen won. She then transitioned to Bollywood and South Indian films, later gaining prominence in Malayalam cinema. Known for taking on bold and unconventional roles, she has received multiple accolades, including:
- Kerala State Film Award for Best Actress (twice)
- Amrita TV Film Awards
- Recognition for anchoring reality and talk shows
Her versatility spans commercial films, art cinema, and television.
Family and Personal Life
Shwetha was initially married to model Bobby Bhonsle, but the marriage ended in divorce. In 2011, she married Sreevalsan Menon, a Mumbai-based journalist. Their daughter Sabaina was born in 2012.
The birth of Sabaina was uniquely filmed and later featured in the Malayalam movie Kalimannu, which created significant public discourse.
Notable Controversies
1. Kalimannu – Childbirth Filming Controversy (2013)
Shwetha allowed her real childbirth to be filmed for the movie Kalimannu, directed by Blessy. Though it was marketed as a bold artistic choice, it drew criticism from politicians and the Film Exhibitors Federation of Kerala. Critics accused her of exploiting motherhood for commercial gain. Despite the backlash, Shwetha stood by her decision, stating it was a celebration of motherhood.
2. Molestation Complaint Against MP (2013)
During a public event in Kerala, Shwetha filed a police complaint against Congress MP N. Peethambara Kurup, alleging inappropriate physical contact. An FIR was filed under Sections 354 and 354A of the Indian Penal Code. However, she later withdrew the complaint after receiving a public apology from the MP.
Net Worth Assessment
As of 2025, Shwetha Menon’s estimated net worth is between ₹90 to ₹95 lakh INR. This figure includes earnings from:
- Film appearances
- Television hosting
- Reality shows
- Brand endorsements
It’s important to note that actual figures may vary based on new projects and ongoing work.
Conclusion
Shwetha Menon’s life and career embody a mix of talent, bold choices, and public resilience. From pushing boundaries in cinema to speaking out against misconduct, she has carved a unique space for herself in Indian entertainment. As a mother, artist, and public figure from the Nair Hindu community, Shwetha remains both celebrated and scrutinized—standing as a symbol of both modern womanhood and traditional values.
