Nostalgia hits Aju Varghese when he talks about Sathyam Theatre, Thiruvanmiyur beach and his college in Chennai, which instilled in him a passion for films. The youngster met filmmaker Vineeth Sreenivasan, who facilitated his film debut with Malarvadi Arts Club, at Hindustan College. Aju graduated in electronics and communication engineering from Hindustan in 2006. The young Mollywood actor became popular after essaying a hilarious performance in Thattathin Marayathu. He has his kitty full with exciting roles in the upcoming films of Zachariayude Garbhinikal, Daivathinte Swantham Cleetus, Punyalan Agarbattis and Om Shanthi Oshana.
What did college teach you?
Like many youngsters of my age, I stayed away from home for the first time during college. Those days taught me the value of money and home-made food. I got to know what the real world is like. I also met my friends, my biggest asset in life, in college.
What was your proudest moment in college?
Last year, Vineeth Sreenivasan and I went to college for a function. We were immensely happy to be sitting on stage. The professors who taught us were still there, and it was a proud moment.
Have you had any embarrassing moments in college?
Since I am a thick-skinned person, none of the blunders I committed embarrassed me. It was a habit to take short naps during class hours. Professors who caught me red-handed asked me to leave the class but when they realised the punishment was not effective, they made me sit in the front row and forced me pay close attention to the lecture.
How did you score points with the opposite gender?
I had a hard time with girls. There were some disagreements, which persisted till the end. But I was not bothered as I was content with my circle of guy friends.
Was bunking a part of your college routine?
Of course! Bunking was a routine affair. Our college was close to the city, so we never missed an opportunity to roam around the cinemas, shops and beaches. We only required 65 per cent attendance to sit for exams, and somehow I got it!
Did you have any rifts with professors? Why?
Though I was not a studious student and used to bunk class, there were no fights between professors and me. Our teachers were young and understanding. I also treated them with respect.
Where did you hang out with friends?
Everywhere including Elliots and Thiruvanmiyur beaches, cinemas, food joints and friends’ houses. We used to roam a lot.
What extracurricular activities were you involved in?
None. During those days, I dreamed of becoming a technician and working behind the camera, rather than acting. Therefore, I never took part in any extracurricular activities.
— parvathy@newindianexpress.com