Sheeja Mathews, a native of Changnassery in Kerala, has stepped into active electoral politics in Mumbai, contesting the forthcoming Mira-bhayandar Municipal Corporation elections from Ward No. 19 as a Shiv Sena (Shinde) candidate. The ward has around 38,000 voters.
Having arrived in Mumbai during the year 1995, Sheeja Mathews did not initially envisage a role as a social activist. However, her consistent involvement in charitable activities and social interventions soon drew public attention. During the Covid period, her work came to the notice of Maharashtra Minister Pratap Sarnaik, who encouraged her to enter the electoral fray, leading to her candidature.
An M.Com and LLB graduate, Sheeja Mathews began her professional journey in the private sector after completing her graduation, while continuing her higher studies with the support of her family. She remains optimistic about her prospects, stating that the systematic campaign led by former corporator and Malayali community leader Saji Pappachan has strengthened her outreach among voters.
A group of Malayali women, not affiliated with any political party, has also come forward in support of her campaign, marking a significant show of community solidarity. Her family members are actively backing her efforts. Her husband Mathew, who works with an advertising firm in Dubai, has joined the campaign trail, while her elder daughter Angel, a dentist based in Kerala, and younger daughter Siya, a Class 10 student, are also extending support along with their friends.
With growing encouragement from the Malayali community and local residents, Sheeja Mathews’ entry into Mumbai’s civic politics reflects the increasing participation of Kerala natives in the city’s public life.