M. Mohanan was born in Kannur, in the Indian state of Kerala. He began writing in college and was encouraged by the actor Sreenivasan who gave him confidence writing scripts. Mohanan studied and lived with Sreenivasan while studying for his degree. Mohanan worked as Assistant Director with Sathyan Anthikad and made 14 films as his assistant. Mohanan is the recipient of Kerala State Film Awards for Best Story and Best Popular Film. His movies: 916, Manikiakkallu and Katha Parayumpol.