With unwavering determination, self-belief, and resilience, Renju Renjimar has carved a remarkable place for herself in the beauty industry. Known for her signature style and exceptional talent, she is one of Kerala’s most celebrated celebrity makeup artists. Beyond makeup, Renju is admired for her positivity, honesty, and inspiring life journey. In this candid conversation, she opens up about her career, dreams, struggles, friendships, and the philosophy that keeps her moving forward.
1. Your videos are always filled with laughter and music. What’s the secret behind their huge popularity?
Renju Renjimar:
Laughter has always been my shield. No matter how much I smile, there is often pain hidden behind it. There are people around us who may try to make us cry in different ways, but I choose to smile.
If my smile or a song can bring even a little happiness or peace into someone’s life, that’s the greatest gift I can offer them. We have only one life. So, we should live it with joy while also trying to make life a little happier for others. 
2. How did your journey as a makeup artist begin?
Renju Renjimar:
Every person’s journey begins long before they enter the world. We are born into society, and from that moment, life starts teaching us its lessons.
My story was no different. I never grew up dreaming of becoming a makeup artist. Life itself led me here. My circumstances pushed me in this direction, and gradually I fell in love with the profession. I started learning every aspect of makeup, exploring different techniques, ideas, and creative possibilities. Eventually, I decided to make makeup artistry my career.
3. You’ve worked with many leading actresses in Malayalam cinema as well as artists from other film industries. With whom did you feel the most comfort and satisfaction while working?
Renju Renjimar:
Every artist is unique, and my goal is always to create a look that complements their personality. I feel fortunate that I’ve been able to do that successfully.
Working with different celebrities has taught me something valuable every time. Some have shared their knowledge about makeup, while others have introduced me to new products or even different languages and cultures. Every experience has helped me grow both personally and professionally.
If I have to mention one person, it would be Mamta Mohandas. She has excellent knowledge about makeup and beauty products, and we often exchange ideas. She has taught me many things over the years. I’m also her personal makeup artist, which makes our professional relationship even more special.
4. Many people believe your experience working with Ambika Pillai was a turning point in your career. What does that experience mean to you?
Renju Renjimar:
Even today, Ambika Pillai Ma’am is the makeup artist I admire the most. Whenever someone mentions celebrity makeup artists, she is the first person who comes to my mind.
Working alongside her gave me the opportunity to meet and collaborate with celebrities like Deepika Padukone, Aishwarya Rai, Bipasha Basu, John Abraham, Dia Mirza, and many others.
I wouldn’t call it the turning point of my career. Instead, I would say it opened a completely new chapter in my professional life. I learned not only makeup techniques but also professionalism, discipline, and how to build a successful career in this industry.
5. What are your biggest dreams, ambitions, and aspirations today?
Renju Renjimar:
I’ve been fortunate to achieve many of my dreams, but it would be dishonest to say I have no dreams left. Today, my biggest goal is to establish a Cosmetology College in Kerala, where aspiring artists can receive quality education and professional training.
Although I’ve worked with Deepika Padukone during the early stages of her career, I dream of doing her makeup again now that she has become one of India’s biggest stars.
On a personal level, I wish I had a friend who truly understands me—someone who shares my happiness, listens to my pain, and accepts me for who I am. I’m not talking about love or marriage. Just a genuine friend. I don’t think I have that person in my life yet, but I’m still waiting. I believe everyone deserves a friend like that.
6. You’ve acted in short films and movies as well. How has that experience been?
Renju Renjimar:
Acting is a dream for almost everyone, and I’m no exception. I truly enjoy being in front of the camera. I would love to be recognized as an actress as well, but my work commitments often make it difficult to accept acting opportunities. In fact, I’ve had to decline a few film offers simply because I couldn’t dedicate enough time to them.
Standing on a film set as an actress gives me a different kind of happiness. It’s a beautiful feeling. I’ve also directed a short film, and that experience made me realize how much hard work goes into filmmaking. The project earned me awards for Best Actress and Best Director, which I cherish deeply.
With God’s grace, I hope to do a meaningful feature film in the near future.
7. Dora always feels full of positive energy. What inspired you to start it?
Renju Renjimar:
Honestly, it happened quite unexpectedly. Initially, my only plan was to start an academy where I could teach makeup. The idea of opening beauty salons came later. By God’s grace, Dora has now expanded to Kollam, Ernakulam, Angamaly, and Kozhikode, and I’m grateful for the love and support we’ve received.
I firmly believe that if you give people the best, they will always give their love back. That’s the philosophy behind Dora.
8. Life hasn’t been easy for you, yet you’ve turned every challenge into strength. Who has been your biggest inspiration?
Renju Renjimar:
I have always been my own biggest motivation. There was no one to lead me forward or show me the way. Everything I achieved came from my own efforts and determination.
No one is obligated to build our lives for us. We have to find our own path. It has been my decisions, my convictions, and my faith that have brought me to where I am today.
At the same time, I’ve never forgotten the people and circumstances that shaped me. As I grew in life, I made sure to keep those who stood by me close to my heart. My faith has also been one of my greatest sources of strength.
9. Everyone knows about your close bond with your mother. Tell us more about that relationship.
Renju Renjimar:
The first person who truly understood me was my mother. We share an incredible bond. Like every mother and child, we have our disagreements and arguments, but we’ve always been honest with each other.
I believe a mother may get angry or correct us, but she’ll never stop loving us or abandon us. My heart and my life are dedicated to my mother.
If she hadn’t accepted me for who I am, I would never have reached where I am today. Whenever I get the opportunity, I make sure to express my love and gratitude to her.
10. You’ve often said, “All I need is genuine love.” Is that a thought shaped by your life experiences?
Renju Renjimar:
Absolutely. Every human being longs for genuine love and acceptance. I’m fortunate to have a sincere circle of friends with whom I can share anything. They know me well, understand my emotions, and stand beside me in both happiness and hardship.
They are my greatest support system, and I treasure them deeply.
11. As a beauty expert, what is your perspective on beauty standards for men and women today?
Renju Renjimar:
Beauty standards have always existed. The only difference is that today people openly talk about them. Makeup is no longer limited to women. Men also embrace beauty and grooming. Technology has advanced, treatments are available, and people have access to a wide range of beauty products.
But beyond appearances, I believe the most important thing is to become a good human being. That’s the real beauty that lasts forever.
12. Friendship seems to play an important role in your life. Tell us about your friends.
Renju Renjimar:
I’m blessed with many wonderful friends who stand by me through everything. I have a close-knit women’s group of 22 friends, and we’re like family. Whenever I feel low or emotional, they are always there to support me.
Some friendships come with healthy boundaries, while others cross those boundaries in ways that can become emotionally draining. I’ve experienced relationships that brought me deep emotional pain.
Even today, I believe everyone deserves at least one true friend who stays beside them during every difficult phase of life. That’s something every person needs.
13. You’re often seen wearing beautiful sarees, and they suit you exceptionally well. Is the saree your favourite outfit?
Renju Renjimar:
Yes, I absolutely love wearing sarees. Interestingly, I mostly wear sarees only when I’m in Kerala. Whenever I travel outside the state, I usually prefer modern outfits. I’m actually quite an ultra modern person and enjoy experimenting with different styles. I don’t limit myself to one type of clothing. Many people tell me that I look my best in a saree, and I truly appreciate hearing that.
14. You’ve worked alongside internationally acclaimed costume designer Sanjana Jon during International Fashion Week. How was that experience?
Renju Renjimar:
Sanjana Jon is like an elder sister to me. We share a very warm and close relationship. Working with her gave me the opportunity to collaborate with celebrities like Kangana Ranaut and many other well known personalities. She has taught me a great deal about fashion, styling, and professionalism. Every project with her has been a valuable learning experience that has helped me grow in my career.
15. In 2016, you received the Kerala State Government’s Popular Makeup Artist Award. What did that recognition mean to you?
Renju Renjimar:
None of the awards I’ve received were something I actively chased. They came to me unexpectedly, and that’s what makes them so precious. Every recognition gives me fresh energy and motivates me to do better. But I’ve never worked for awards. My only goal has always been to do my job with honesty and give my best every single time.
16. What does Pride Month mean to you?
Renju Renjimar:
Pride Month is about embracing who you truly are and celebrating your identity with confidence. It’s a time when people openly express themselves without fear. I believe Pride has brought positive changes to society. It has created awareness, encouraged conversations, and helped many people understand and accept diversity with greater compassion.
17. You’ve faced criticism and controversy for speaking your mind. How do you deal with it?
Renju Renjimar:
I don’t spend my time worrying about what society thinks of me. My focus is on doing my work sincerely. I’ve always believed in speaking honestly. If I feel something is wrong, I’ll say it’s wrong, no matter where I am. At the same time, if I realize that I’ve made a mistake, I have no hesitation in apologizing. I will always stand for what I believe is right. Whatever consequences come my way, I face them with a smile.
18. Today, beauty treatments and cosmetic procedures have become very common. What’s your opinion about them?
Renju Renjimar:
Today, almost everyone uses makeup and skincare products. The important thing is to choose products that suit your skin and seek professional advice whenever necessary. Consulting a qualified skin specialist is always a good idea.
Beauty treatments should always be a personal choice. People should do what makes them feel confident and comfortable. Personally, I’ve only undergone treatments to improve my skin texture and had a small Botox procedure on my upper lip. Other than that, I haven’t had any cosmetic procedures. At the end of the day, it’s an individual’s decision, and I respect that.
19. The loss of several beloved members of the transgender community deeply affected all of us. In your opinion, what leads someone to such a painful situation?
Renju Renjimar:
Suicide is never a solution. Sometimes, it happens in just a single moment of overwhelming emotion. That’s why it’s so important to recognize those feelings before they take control.
We shouldn’t expect everyone around us to understand us or behave exactly the way we wish. Life doesn’t always go as planned, and relationships can be unpredictable. We must learn to accept that reality.
No matter how difficult life becomes, death is never the answer. We are born to live this life, not to give up on it. Life is precious, and we should try our best to live it with hope, courage, and happiness.
20. What are your upcoming projects?
Renju Renjimar:
I’m not someone who plans every step far in advance. I prefer to go with the flow. As Mamta Mohandas’ personal makeup artist, I travel with her whenever her work requires it. Alongside that, I continue teaching at my academy and working with my bridal clients.
One of my biggest dreams is to establish a cosmetology institute. I also hope to act in a good feature film whenever the right opportunity comes along. Those are my priorities at the moment.
21. Finally, what would you like to say to your audience?
Renju Renjimar:
Be happy. Smile wholeheartedly. Remember, your happiness is in your own hands. No one else can create it for you. Don’t keep dwelling on the past. Focus on what lies ahead and make it beautiful. Be yourself, respect others, and learn to accept people for who they are. Talk to people with honesty. Look them in the eye when you speak, and always be kind. I wish everyone a life filled with happiness, love, and success. Thank you for all the love and support you’ve given me throughout my journey. It truly means the world to me.
