In a space dominated by too much negativity, a story like this puts a smile on one's face.
For the past two days, social media has been abuzz with talk of a viral video doing the rounds. The subject of the video: an unknown man doing a mellifluous rendition of the Shankar Mahadevan song "Unnai Kaanadhu Naan" from Kamal Hassan's Vishwaroopam. There was no need for an orchestra: his voice alone was enough.
When the video went viral and enquiries were made, the man was revealed to be Rakesh Unni Nooranad, a daily wage timber worker from Alappuzha. It was his friend Shameer who recorded it and uploaded it online.
Since then the video has been shared by many, which consequently brought him to the attention of some eminent film personalities, including Shankar Mahadevan and Kamal Hassan, who were bowled by Rakesh's talents.
Shankar Mahadevan personally called him to compliment him, and noted composers Gopi Sunder and Ghibran have expressed their wish to work with him. He has received a call from Kamal Hassan's office and hopes to meet the "Ulaganayagan" soon.
When this reporter contacted Rakesh, he was getting ready for work but was more than willing to spare some time for a chat. "I've been following Shankar Mahadevan Sir's work for a long time. I'm a huge fan of his and his work is an inspiration for me. I see him as my guru. When he called me, I couldn't believe my luck. I've been getting plenty of calls but I don't mind everyone calling me. Something like this happening to an ordinary guy like me -- it's all god's grace."
Though not formally trained, singing runs in Rakesh's blood and he credits his family for encouraging him and compelling him to participate in light music competitions in his school days. He also plays the chenda well. He has the backing of an immensely supportive community. He part of an association called the "Nooranadanmar Souhrida Koottayma", and each member is proud of their colleague's newfound fame. They're now sharing his earlier recordings to those who request for them.
When asked if he watches a lot of Tamil movies, Rakesh says, "I'm a big fan of Rajini Sir, Kamal Sir, and Vijay Sir. Though I see Rajini as a role model, I love all three of them equally. I can't say that one actor is better than the other. I loved Kamal Sir's Indian, Guna, Thevar Magan, and Thenali; Rajini Sir's Thalapathi, Baasha, and Kabali; Vijay Sir's Thullaatha Manamum Thullum and Pokkiri. I'm also a fan of Dhanush. I liked his Maryan a lot."