Clad in a bright red sari and shelled glasses, Manju Warrier looked every inch the legendary writer Kamala Das as she walked into the sets of Aami at Punnayoorkulam.
A picture of elegance like the deceased writer, Manju was welcomed by Kamala’s sister Suvarna Nalappat. “Manju looks like Kamala oppu,” she said.
Capping all controversies, Aami, the biopic of Kamala, directed by Kamal, went on the floors at the Kamala Suraayya Memmorial on Friday. “I consider myself blessed to be able to play Kamala onscreen,” Manju said.
Jayasurya, the son of Kamala, lit the lamp as part of the pooja ceremony. Actor KPAC Lalitha, writer Sara Joseph and child artists, Anjalina and Neelanjana, were also present. Kamal said controversies and subsequent discussions were always welcomed.
“Controversies never left Kamala’s life too. However, today is the happiest day of my life,” the director said.
Meanwhile, Jayasurya said that Aami will not be a complete portrayal of the writer’s life. “Some realities will be absent. Kamal had discussed everything with me while scripting the movie. I had some objections and mentioned it to Kamal. However, all is left to the creative freedom of the director,” he said.
Due to the controversies related to the film, the police had provided a tight security at the location.
The first schedule will be held at Ottappalam. After a two-month break, the shoot will continue at Kolkata, Mumbai and Bangaluru. Manju will gain weight for playing the part.