Get to Know Manju Warrier’s Parents: Girija Warrier and Sri D.P. Madhavan

Manju Warrier, widely celebrated as the “Lady Superstar” of Malayalam cinema, is renowned for her remarkable acting talent and elegant classical dance performances.

Born on September 10, 1978, in Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu, she is a prominent figure in the Indian film industry and a proud representative of Malayali heritage. A devout Hindu, Manju was raised in a modest, middle-class family rooted in cultural values and artistic tradition.

Her mother, Girija Warrier, a homemaker with a strong background in classical dance, and her father, Sri D.P. Madhavan, an accountant, played vital roles in nurturing her passion for the arts. She shares a close bond with her elder brother, Madhu Warrier, who has also made his mark in the film industry as an actor and producer.

Growing up in Pullu, a village in Thrissur, Kerala, Manju discovered her love for Bharatanatyam early in life. Her dedication to dance earned her the prestigious ‘Kalathilakam’ title at the Kerala Youth Festival for two consecutive years—a testament to her early brilliance.

She pursued her education at Chinmaya Vidyalaya in Kannur and CSI Matriculation Higher Secondary School in Nagercoil, later enrolling at S.N. College, Kannur. Her strong foundation in classical dance and the unwavering support from her parents laid the groundwork for her entry into the film industry.

At just 17, she made her cinematic debut in the Malayalam film Sakshyam, launching what would become a legendary career. Behind her ascent to stardom are the sacrifices and steadfast encouragement of her parents, Girija and Madhavan. Their belief in her abilities and commitment to fostering her talents have been instrumental in her transformation from a gifted village girl to one of the most revered figures in South Indian cinema.

Sri D.P. Madhavan

Sri D.P. Madhavan, affectionately known in some circles as TV Madhavan Warrier, was a devoted father and diligent accountant who worked at the Nagercoil regional office of Sundaram Finance in Tamil Nadu.

Born into a modest Malayali family, Madhavan‘s life was marked by quiet resilience, commitment, and deep sacrifice. More than a provider, he was the emotional backbone of his household, choosing to place his family’s dreams—especially his daughter Manju Warrier’s artistic aspirations—above his own needs and comforts.

Manju has spoken movingly about her father’s profound influence on her life and career, particularly in cultivating her early passion for dance. Despite the family’s limited financial means, Madhavan did everything he could to support her training.

In a heartfelt 2017 interview with Mathrubhumi on World Dance Day, Manju recalled how her father, recognizing both her mother’s dreams and her own talent, made immense personal sacrifices to ensure she had every opportunity. He borrowed money to fund her participation in the Kerala Youth Festival and other events, sold gold ornaments, and even bid on chit funds. “I sometimes feel my anklet is made of my father’s sweat,” she said, capturing the depth of his dedication.

Madhavan’s frugality reflected his devotion. Though his job allowed for reimbursed train travel, he frequently chose less comfortable bus rides to save money, redirecting those savings toward Manju’s dance lessons and performance expenses. His selflessness enabled her to receive top-tier training and eventually earn the coveted ‘Kalathilakam’ title two years in a row—an achievement that helped launch her illustrious film career.

After years of courageously battling cancer, Madhavan passed away on June 10, 2018, at the age of 70, at the family’s home in Pullu, Thrissur. He spent his final moments surrounded by his beloved wife Girija, children Manju and Madhu Warrier, daughter-in-law Anu, and granddaughter Avani.

Girija Warrier

Girija Warrier, mother of acclaimed actress Manju Warrier, is a woman whose strength, resilience, and quiet brilliance have left an indelible mark on her family and all who hear her story.

While she spent much of her life as a devoted homemaker, Girija’s journey is one of extraordinary courage—marked by her victorious battle with cancer and her late-blooming pursuits in the arts.

Her fight against cancer began around the time Manju welcomed her daughter, Meenakshi—a time that brought both joy and an immense challenge. In an interview with Malayala Manorama’s “Kerala Can” initiative, Girija candidly reflected on those difficult days.

She admitted that she initially underestimated the seriousness of the illness, only realizing its gravity after undergoing chemotherapy and radiation.

At the Regional Cancer Centre (RCC), she found community among fellow patients but was deeply affected by the loss of some to the disease. With the unwavering support of her husband, D.P. Madhavan, and children, Manju and Madhu, Girija mustered the strength to confront cancer head-on and eventually emerged victorious.

Her recovery marked the beginning of a new chapter. Embracing life with renewed energy, Girija pursued a childhood dream she had long set aside—classical dance. She studied Kathakali under the guidance of master artist Kalanilayam Gopi for more than two years.

In March 2021, she gave a powerful debut performance as Panchali in the Kalyanasougandhikam recital at the Peruvanam Mahadeva Temple during the Sivarathri celebrations. Watching her from the audience, Manju proudly celebrated the moment on social media, calling her mother a “SUPERSTAR” and thanking her for being a lifelong source of inspiration.

Girija’s artistic journey didn’t end with Kathakali. She went on to master Mohiniyattam and Nritha Yoga, staging her Mohiniyattam arangetram (debut) in 2023—yet another testament to her passion and perseverance.

Beyond dance, she rediscovered her love for writing during the COVID-19 lockdown. Some of her early short stories had been published in Mathrubhumi’s weekly magazine, and she began writing again, delighting her family with her creativity. She also made a generous literary contribution to her community by donating around 200 books to the Thiruvilwamala village library.

Manju often describes her mother as the “captain” of her life, a steady guiding force whose resilience continues to shape her own journey. In a heartfelt post, she wrote, “My biggest strength is that I’m a little piece of you. Proud of you, Amma!!!” Girija Warrier’s story is one of quiet power—of a woman who overcame adversity and turned it into fuel for a vibrant and inspiring second act.