Shaiju Mathew is a name that resonates in the world of literature and cinema, not just in India, but internationally as well. A man of many talents, Mathew has carved a niche for himself as an Indian-Canadian author, screenplay writer, director, and movie critic.
With his bestselling novel Knocked Up, he has impacted audiences in multiple languages and formats, establishing himself as a versatile storyteller. His work is not just limited to books but extends to successful cinematic adaptations, and his story continues to inspire many aspiring authors and filmmakers.
The Breakthrough: “Knocked Up”
At the heart of Shaiju Mathew’s success lies his breakthrough novel, Knocked Up, which he penned in just 20 days. Released in 2010, the coming-of-age story drew inspiration from Mathew’s own childhood experiences, infused with relatable emotions and the trials of adolescence. What made Knocked Up stand out was its simple, honest narrative that connected deeply with everyday readers.
Mathew, influenced by literary legends like R.K. Narayan, Jane Austen, and Ruskin Bond, has always emphasized storytelling that resonates with the common man. His goal was to create stories that reflected the experiences of people in an approachable, heartfelt manner.
In a world where many stories come and go, Knocked Up caught fire, leading to its adaptation into films. The novel was set to be adapted into a Hindi feature film with Mathew himself as a co-producer, a significant leap for a first-time author. However, the story’s reach didn’t stop there. In 2014, a Marathi film titled Timepass was loosely based on Knocked Up.
The film went on to become the highest-grossing Marathi movie of that time, a testament to the universal appeal of Mathew’s storytelling. Later that year, Lai Bhaari surpassed its record, but Timepass had already solidified its place in the hearts of audiences.
Mathew’s storytelling prowess continued to captivate filmmakers, with Andhra Pori, a Telugu film starring Puri Akash, son of famous director Puri Jagannadh, also being based on Knocked Up. Mathew’s ability to reach different demographics and adapt his stories for the screen has proven that his work transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries, making him a significant figure in both literature and film.
A Diverse Career of Shaiju Mathew
Beyond Knocked Up, Shaiju Mathew has maintained an active and diverse career. His second novel, Alfie The Elf, a Christmas-themed book, was written in just nine days, showcasing his remarkable speed and creativity. Released in 2016, the book was another testament to Mathew’s ability to pivot from one genre to another with ease. While Knocked Up was rooted in reality, Alfie The Elf was more whimsical, delving into the fantasy genre that captivated readers with its charm and holiday spirit.
Shaiju Mathew’s third book, A Pocketful of Sunshine, is a period drama, showing once again his ability to evolve as a storyteller. Each of his works displays a different facet of his creativity, highlighting his versatility and relentless pursuit of narrative exploration.
Not just limited to writing, Mathew is also deeply involved in the world of cinema. Shaiju Mathew is associated with Citadel Cinemas, a Bangalore-based production house that produced Bangles, a Malayalam feature film, and the short film Oru Thundu Padam starring Aju Varghese. His knowledge of the cinematic arts, combined with his literary background, makes him a powerful force in both industries.
A Passionate Movie Critic
Apart from his roles as an author and filmmaker, Shaiju Mathew is also a respected movie critic. Shaiju Mathew regularly writes for various newspapers, magazines, and blogs, offering his in-depth analyses and reviews of films. His passion for storytelling extends beyond his own creations, as he critically engages with the works of others, providing valuable insights that help shape the discourse around cinema.
Shaiju Mathew’s voice as a critic is just as impactful as his voice as a storyteller. His critiques are thoughtful, reflective, and informed by his own experiences as a creator. This dual perspective—of being both a creator and a critic—gives him a unique position in the film and literary worlds, allowing him to inspire both readers and fellow filmmakers.
Inspiration for Aspiring Creatives
Shaiju Mathew’s journey from a student in Pune to an international author and filmmaker is nothing short of inspirational. Born and raised in India, Mathew’s early education took place at the prestigious St. Joseph’s Boys’ High School in Pune, an institution that also counts acclaimed actor Kay Kay Menon as one of its alumni. After completing his studies in Human Resource Management at Pune University, Mathew moved to Bangalore, where he embarked on his creative journey.
His success story is a testament to the power of perseverance and belief in one’s craft. Mathew’s ability to seamlessly navigate between literature, cinema, and critique proves that one’s career can evolve in exciting, unexpected ways if one is willing to embrace opportunities and challenges.
For aspiring writers and filmmakers, Shaiju Mathew’s path offers a blueprint for how to harness your talents and market them in a fast-paced, competitive world. His clever use of social media to publicize his first book shows that creativity isn’t just limited to the page—it extends to how you promote your work and build a brand.
Looking Ahead
With his ongoing involvement in both literature and cinema, the future looks bright for Shaiju Mathew. As an author, his upcoming period drama A Pocketful of Sunshine promises to be another engaging read, while his continued role in cinematic productions ensures that we’ll see more of his work on the big screen. His dedication to telling stories that resonate with ordinary people and his ability to pivot between different genres and mediums ensure that Mathew will remain a significant figure in the world of storytelling for years to come.
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