Kunchacko Boban, fondly known as Chackochan and a prominent name in Malayalam cinema, has carved a remarkable career for himself, spanning over two decades. Born on November 2, 1976, in Alappuzha, Kerala, Kunchacko hails from the legendary Kunchacko family, which has been a cornerstone of the Malayalam film industry. His great-grandfather, M. M. Chacko, founded Udaya Studios, Kerala’s first film studio, giving Kunchacko a direct connection to the roots of Mollywood. His father, Boban Kunchacko, a notable actor, director, and producer, was involved in several iconic films produced by Udaya Studios.
Kunchacko’s entry into the cinematic world was nothing short of a legacy. His debut as a child actor in Dhanya (1981), produced by his father, marked the beginning of his connection with films. However, his adult career took off with the 1997 romantic drama Aniyathipraavu, where he starred opposite Shalini. The film became a massive hit, marking Kunchacko as a rising star in Malayalam cinema. His youthful, charming image earned him the moniker chocolate boy, and he quickly became a beloved romantic hero in the late 90s and early 2000s, with films like Niram (1999) and Prem Poojari (1999) further solidifying his status.
However, by the mid-2000s, Kunchacko’s career faced some turbulence with a string of box office disappointments. He took a brief hiatus from acting and delved into business ventures. The actor made a strong comeback in 2009 with the comedy Gulumal: The Escape, a commercial success that marked a turning point in his career. The period following his return saw Kunchacko break free from his romantic hero image, showing his versatility by taking on a variety of roles, from a tough cop in Traffic (2011) to a passionate political figure in How Old Are You? (2014) and the gripping thriller Anjaam Pathiraa (2020). His recent performances in Nayattu (2021) and Pada (2022) have earned him widespread acclaim, reaffirming his place as one of the leading actors of Mollywood.
In addition to his acting career, Kunchacko has also ventured into film production. In 2016, he took a significant step by reviving the iconic Udaya Studios with the release of Kochavva Paulo Ayyappa Coelho. The following years saw him start his own production house, Kunchacko Boban Productions, and announce projects like Ariyippu, marking his continued commitment to the industry.
On a personal note, Kunchacko’s life is as heartwarming as his on-screen image. He married his long-time fan-turned-sweetheart, Priya Ann Samuel, on April 2, 2005, and the couple was blessed with a son, Izahaak Boban Kunchacko, in 2019. Kunchacko, a sports enthusiast and trained Bharatanatyam dancer, also enjoys a fulfilling life outside cinema, balancing his family life with his flourishing career.
From being the chocolate boy to a seasoned actor known for his depth and versatility, Kunchacko Boban’s journey in Malayalam cinema has been one of remarkable evolution, not just as an actor but as a visionary in the industry.