Interview Jyotirmayi: I was Amal Neerad’s first and last choice for my role in Bougainvillea
The first thing I notice about Jyotirmayi when I open the door to her home in Fort Kochi is her warmth. We are meeting for the first time, but it feels like meeting an old friend. The actor made a much-awaited comeback to films after a decade-long hiatus BougainvilleaDirected by Amal Neerad.
Expectations are high for the film as Amal’s last release Bhishma Parvam was a blockbuster. The buzz around the film reached a fever pitch with the release of the stylishly shot trailer song ‘Stuthi…’ featuring Jyotirmayi, Kunchako Boban and music director Sushin Shyam.
The song has garnered 4.4 million views since its release two weeks ago, with her edgy look matched with Kunchako Boban’s stylish, energetic moves, salt-and-pepper hair and quick footwork. With all the hallmarks of an Amal Neerad production, the song introduced Jyotirmayi to a whole new generation, since she took a break from films in 2013.
Coincidentally, he is fondly remembered by another generation for another hit number of 2002, ‘Chingamasam Bhanuchernal…’. Misha Madhavan. In a career spanning more than a decade, the 41-year-old starred in more than 40 films before taking a break when she married Amal.
Edited excerpts from a chat with the actor.
What a way to return! You are stunning in ‘Stuthi’. How did the film come about?
First of all… I didn’t know when I would do a film, Amal and I were planning a project that we had to shelve. This project comes along a bit later; I said this [Bougainvillaea] It just happened. We didn’t plan it deliberately and didn’t come up with a script. I believe in destiny; Sometimes, we are destined to do certain things. I was a bit apprehensive about doing this performance-based character, especially since I’m coming back [to films] A decade later; Especially at a time when Malayalam cinema is in a good place where even non-Malayalis are liking our films. I was worried about doing it, but thanks to Amal Neerad for convincing me to do it Bougainvillea. I was his first and last choice for this role and I am grateful to have this role.
So what do you believe?
Undoubtedly the name is Amal Neerad. I worked with him before coming to films. People think we started dating Sagar aka Jackie But no, it was before our arrival in the film industry. Earlier we worked together on a few commercials. I know him and am most comfortable with him. I asked him several times if I would be able to pull off this role. Then, I realized that if he had faith that I would be able to do it, I would do it. Actors who have worked with Amal say that this is about him: Even though a role or an aspect of it may be complicated, he tends to make it easy for the actor instead of making it difficult. He has a knack for it…it was this belief and trust in him that led me to take the plunge.
Jyotirmayi in ‘Stuthi’ Photo credit: Special Arrangements
You have returned to acting in a film directed by your husband. Would you do it with someone else? What offers are you getting?
I wasn’t getting offers or rather, the few that came my way weren’t exciting enough to pursue. The introduction must have something in it for me. They either have to be challenging or something that I can work with as an actor or an exciting team. Would I have done it if it was someone else? i don’t know
Since you were both working on the same project, did you bring the movie back home?
(he laughs) No, no, no! During filming, we were exhausted when we got home. We have a three-year-old son, so if films dominate our lives at work and at home… there is some discussion, it’s inevitable but we try to keep my work on set and at home separate.
Jyotirmayi | Photo credit: RK Nithin
Circling back to song and dance. They are a rage and you are good at it.
I am not a trained classical dancer, I learned film based dance and Bollywood dance. However, it has been years since I moved my body like this. It had been a decade since I danced, I knew I needed rehearsals and practice.; Otherwise it will be difficult for me to work. Also, since it is a new style of dance, we had to practice for about a week. I never expected the dance to get so much love.
It also makes you look fresher, sharper. What character was it for?
Yes, it’s for character, but I’ve had this look before. I recreated it just for this photo.
Kunchako Boban in ‘Stuthi’ Photo credit: Special Arrangements
How was working with Chacochan (Kunchaco Bobon)?
I have worked with him in films like this Kalyanaraman And SeniorsBut not together, just that we were both in the film. It was great working with him, he is a big name in the industry. Be it in terms of his work, how loved he is, his fan base and he’s such a good dancer! All this was scary…but he is a very good co-star who always boosts your confidence.
How was your 10 year break?
I really enjoyed the break. Amal and I traveled together, got to know and understand each other better, our son was born and we got to spend time with our parents who lived with us in this house, during covid. We lived here together as a big family. My mother and my father-in-law have passed away, we miss them very much. Now, we cherish that time together with them. We could spend time together, which I might not have if I was working.
In the last 10 years, cinema has changed, technology has changed…you have been a part of the film behind the scenes. But how was it in front of the camera after so long?
Most films now use sync sound, with dubbing on rare occasions when a correction is required. This is a huge change, which I think is good. That said, I was worried because I had to act while delivering dialogue/memorizing lines, which meant I had to focus on two things at the same time. But once I got into the groove, it was fine. Technology has changed a lot, cameras, makeup, for example, you don’t need a lot of makeup because of the camera and lighting; The look in the film is very natural. All this is very different from the past. Having said that, I was on the sets of the film as part of Amal Neerad Productions so I was aware of the changes.
Similarly, social media has not spread as much. How do you react to it?
First, I’m not on any social media platforms – I don’t have Facebook or Instagram. I can know what’s going on and my friends’ reactions etc.
A whole new generation is meeting you? How do you feel about it?
When I got the film, I realized that it would be very difficult to influence this generation. I don’t know if anyone, especially my age, can, but luckily, they’ve embraced me with so much love in this song. I consider it a blessing.
What are you feeling as the release approaches?
I don’t think too much about it. I am not thinking too much about it and am not too worried but I am excited that the school kids will be just before their annual day performance…
Now, looking ahead, will we see more of you onscreen?
(laughs) I don’t know. On a more serious note, I have a son who is very young and we own a production house. I don’t know how realistic and feasible it would be to film back to back like before. And let’s see if people accept this picture, accept me…
Bougainvillea is playing at the theater
has been published – October 17, 2024 10:41 am IST
