After I finished Chithiram Pesuthadi, I was not very happy deep down because I had to make some compromises. The film was a success but my unhappiness remained. That was when I started writing Nandalala. No actor accepted the role as they felt their image would get affected if they played the role.

Then a production house agreed to produce the film with a 20-year old and a seven-year old. Everything was ready. I had finished the audition and selected the kids. Then they backed out. That was when I wrote Anjathe in anger.

After Anjathe became a hit, I decided that I was not going to drop the project that was close to my heart. Once again, I went to many heroes with the script. Again, I heard the same story; that the story is good and it will turn out to be a good film but they were not interested. Producers asked me why I wanted to make such a film? They asked me to make a big film with a big hero instead. But I told myself, I am not going to give up.

You told me then that it was the story of a seven-year old boy and a 20- year old. Now you are acting in the film...

I auditioned a lot of youngsters but was not very happy. I was too tired to teach a new fellow too. Then I thought that since I have been carrying this character for so many years, why don't I act in it? All those who know me discouraged me as I was very fat. In two months time, I lost 18 kilos. Now I weigh 70kg. I've changed the age of the character from 20 from 27.

Also read: The Prince of this Onam

Back

|

Next