Jiiva next starred in "Dishyum" (2006), opposite Sandhya of "Kaadhal" fame. "A feel-good movie for youngsters", reviewed various local publications. "Jeeva continues from this point and has matured as an actor. His acting is impeccable and natural; his emoting, expressions, emotions expressed by looks, body-language – all are perfect," remarked "Galatta." The same year, he made his debut as an NSG Commando in Malayalam cinema with Major Ravi's film "Keerthi Chakra" (2006) starring Mohanlal. The movie had a great opening and was one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of the year. Jiiva also won the Best Pair Award along with Gopika at Asianet Film Awards. "Jeeva the Tamil actor has a more heroic role which he has done with felicity. The physical energy he imparts to the role has to be seen to be believed," wrote Sify. Later, the movie was dubbed and released in Tamil as "Aran". His last movie in 2006 was "E", where he portrayed the role of a slum dweller, opposite Nayanthara.The film received positive reviews and was a commercial hit.