Sheelu Abraham, who has appeared before audiences as both a producer and an actor in Malayalam cinema, has often found herself at the centre of social media criticism for speaking candidly about issues within the film industry.

Now, actor-director Alleppey Ashraf has shared his perspective on Sheelu, highlighting aspects of her personality and past experiences within the industry on social media.

“Among actresses who have wealth and stature in cinema, Sheelu Abraham is perhaps the only one who has spoken openly about certain matters,” Ashraf said. He added that Sheelu has long expressed a desire to become a social worker in the future, engage in public service and even run an old-age home. “You understand her character only when you get to know her better. Sheelu Abraham lives in a very simple manner. She has a firm and resolute personality,” he remarked.

Referring to an incident during Mohanlal’s tenure as president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), Ashraf said he had heard that Sheelu pointed out an error in a speech delivered by Mohanlal, following which he corrected it and apologised.

Ashraf also noted that Sheelu had once decided to contest for the post of president in the AMMA elections. However, facing opposition from certain members within the organisation, she eventually chose to withdraw. “Perhaps if she had reached the top of AMMA, many changes might have happened,” he observed.

Ashraf further mentioned that there had been issues between Sheelu, who acted as both producer and lead actress in the film Ravindra Nee Evide, and the film’s director. He pointed out that she often speaks openly on social media about the profits and losses associated with her films, which in turn sparks controversy.

“There have also been criticisms suggesting that she entered cinema merely to fulfil her acting ambitions because her husband has money,” Ashraf said, referring to the allegations that have circulated in public discourse.