'We never expected Seniors to be a rage'

One of the finest actors in the business, Jayaram has carved a niche for himself in Malayalam films as the hero with a sense of humour. He is acting in two films right now, Jayaraj's Naayika and Raj Babu's Ulakam Chuttum Vaaliban.

Jayaram speaks exclusively with Meghna George about his films.

You are currently shooting for Ulakam Chuttum Vaaliban. Is it going to be another laugh riot?

It's a fun film with some slapstick comedy as well. Tamil script writer Gopu Babu had a story that we liked. The script and dialogues are being written by Krishna Poojappura. I worked with the film's director Raj Babu when he was an associate director and I have enjoyed his films Chess and Kangaroo.

What is your character in the film like?

My character, Jayasankar, lives in a village where he buys and sells vegetables. He faces a financial crisis and his family tells him to go to his cousin (played by Suraj Venjarammoodu), who is a big moneybags in the city. He goes to the city and his troubles begin. The story goes through several interesting twists and turns.

In Jayaraj's Naayika, you play the part of a hero of yesteryear.

I have worked with Jayaraj before in various genres of films. Like Sneham and Paithrukam, which were completely different from Millenium Stars, and then in Anachantham and so on.

Naayika is a fantastic film and is based on the life of a heroine who was a heartthrob once but has faded into oblivion. I play a character who used to be the hero in her films, and the character has been crafted in such a way that it will remind viewers of at least two prominent heroes from the past. I am delighted to play the role. Also, it was wonderful working at Udaya Studios where all these old-time stars worked.

How was it working with Urvashi Sharada in the film?

Looking back, I have always felt thrilled not by the number of films that I have been part of, but by the talented people I have worked with.

From such genius directors as Bharathan and Padmarajan to such amazing actors as Prem Nazir, Sheela, Adoor Bhasi and Bahadur, I have had the opportunity to work with several legends. I always wanted to work with Urvashi Sharada, one of the finest actors ever in Indian cinema. That dream has been fulfilled now.

Your film Seniors has become a huge success.

Shooting for Seniors was a fun ride. It is about four friends who return to college after a gap of fourteen years. We enjoyed every moment of it and felt like going back to college ourselves! The whole atmosphere was so enjoyable with actors like Biju Menon and Manoj K Jayan who are wonderful co-artistes. Of course, we knew Seniors could be a hit, but we never expected it to be all the rage.

Which is your next film?

After completing Ulakam Chuttum Vaaliban, I will be doing director Kamal's film, scripted by K Gireesh Kumar.