CHENNAI: A software-engineer-turned actor, Jasper has been in the movie industry for over 14 years and has acted in around 30 movies so far. Though he works in various languages, in the Tamil, Telugu, Bengali and Hindi film industry, he claims he’s a true Chennaite at heart.
So, what’s your Chennai connect?
Even though, I was born in my mom’s home town, which not far away from Chennai. This is where I was brought up, from school, college, work, cinema and beyond, I did everything here.
One thing about namma ooru that you fancy?
Chennai is home, this is where I belong. Anywhere I roam this is where I’ll dock.
Three things in Chennai that can’t be found in any part of the world?
The three things would be: Marina Beach,
T Nagar and Koyambedu market.
Your favourite hangout spot?
I love the beaches here, especially Elliots Beach on weekdays.
Three stereotypes about the city and the people that make you roll your eyeballs?
The conservative attitude, the political and social disconnect of people sometimes make me wonder.
Where would you take a person who is new to the city? Why?
Well, it depends on the person, but one thing I know is that Chennai has so much to offer that I would be able to entertain anybody.
One part of the city or a specific area that you want to explore?
Not one, there are lot of places in Chennai I’d like to explore.
What would you do to prove someone that you are a true Chennai-vasi?
There is absolutely no need to prove it to anyone, I carry the Chennai spirit in me and when someone talks to me they’ll feel it.
Two Madras bashai words that you would teach a newbie?
I’ll surely teach them something funny, may be even a semi swear words with a tone from our north madras slang. It sounds really cute when an outsider tries to speak in Tamil, but I’ll make sure I stick around so that he or she doesn’t get into trouble.
Two things from Chennai that you would take to any place you travel.
Music and memories
Describe the city in your own words and style!
Chennai is a perfect blend of the past, present and future being in harmony, even though we are progressing, we still hold on to our deep rooted values and traditions. Chennai is also a place where free thinkers, peace loving people and rationalists are not a minority.