Television actor Shiju, wife Preethi part ways: A glimpse into their fairytale romance, 17-year-old marriage

Television and movie actor Shiju recently announced that he is parting ways with his wife Preethi Prem after 17 years of marriage. The news has left Malayali audiences in disbelief, as the couple had long been one of the most beloved pairs in the entertainment world. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Shiju, who gained prominence after competing in ‘Bigg Boss Season 5,’ confirmed the divorce, describing the decision as one made with maturity. Yet, despite his calm words, many of his fans, who have long admired the couple's unique and enduring love story, are struggling to accept that their cherished relationship has come to an end. Adding to the emotional impact, an old interview of Preethi, where she spoke candidly about their love story, has gone viral once again.

The couple’s journey began years ago when Preethi, then a class 12 student living in Kuwait, watched the movie ‘Ishtamanu Nooruvattam’ and immediately developed a crush on the tall, handsome actor, Shiju. Little did she know, their paths would cross again in the future. Preethi, who was working as an air hostess for Kuwait Airways, met Shiju by chance at the Chennai airport. A casual exchange of phone numbers led to an unexpected yet profound bond between the two.

Just a day after their first meeting, Shiju called Preethi and confessed his feelings. Preethi, overwhelmed by the attention of a famous actor, recalls the moment with fondness. Within a week, Shiju proposed to her. It was at that point that Preethi realised their relationship had a significant challenge: Shiju was Muslim, and she was Christian. Confiding in her younger sister Priya, Preethi was advised to be cautious—especially since Shiju was in the public eye and they came from different faith backgrounds.

Despite the warning, Preethi was already smitten by Shiju’s calm, kind nature. Her family did voice their concerns, but Preethi was resolute. Within just three days of their first meeting, she had already said ‘yes’ to Shiju. The couple registered their marriage in 2008, but their bond was only solidified further in an official wedding ceremony, which was attended by their daughter, Muskan.

In interviews, Preethi often spoke of Shiju’s exceptional patience and understanding. "Shiju is calm, composed, and extremely patient," she once said. "I tend to be quick-tempered and sometimes explosive, but he listens to me with a kind heart. He has an incredible ability to forgive and move forward." She also praised his culinary skills and the loving connection he shared with their daughter.

Preethi,who is also an accomplished classical dancer (in both Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam) earned a degree in English Literature from Mar Ivanios College in Thiruvananthapuram after which she pursued a two-year legal studies course at George Washington University in the United States.

Shiju, in his note, stated that the decision was made with mutual respect and understanding. He expressed that they would continue to value each other as friends, despite the end of their romantic relationship. For fans, the separation is especially heartbreaking given the wisdom Preethi once shared about what makes a marriage successful: "Mutual understanding is the key. Both husband and wife should be aware of each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Today, marriage is a 50/50 partnership. Women should have their own careers but must also balance family life with grace."