A ball of fire that she is, Rimi Tomy has been a household name in Kerala. The talented singer who has also proved her mettle in anchoring and acting was a livewire even during her college days. Rimi who debuted as a singer through Chingamasam Vannu Chernnal... in Meesa Madhavan during her first-year degree at Alphonsa College, Pala, during 2002, has never turned back then.
The singer who has crooned for nearly 50 films is now making a wave on telly through her chat show, Onnum Onnum Moonnu. Rimi who has some exciting films in her kitty, reminisces her days at Alphonsa College from 2000 to 2005.
What did college teach you?
I belonged to the last batch of pre-degree students in Kerala. After my batch, it was plus-two. Though I pursued my graduation in history, being a scatterbrained person that I am, I can’t recollect all those wars and dates that I learned from the classroom. It was my college that developed the performer in me. I used to sing from my school days, but the nod of support I got from my peers in college shaped me as a professional singer. I started rendering film songs at my college functions. In that sense, you can say that my college days instilled confidence in me to be a playback singer.
Your proudest moment in college.
During my pre-degree, I was elected as my college’s Art’s Club Secretary. It was for the first time that a junior student won the election. I grabbed the position for record majority, a moment I cherish. For the inauguration, actor Biju Menon came, and I delivered a speech though I had a cold. All those are fond memories still fresh in my mind.
Have you had any embarrassing moments you have had in college?
I had no such moments. My days at college were absolutely fun-filled.
How did you score points with the opposite gender?
Ours was a girls-only college.
Was bunking a part of your college routine?
Our canteen special Pazhampori (banana fritter) was my favourite delicacy then. As soon as its aroma wafted through the campus, I used to rush to the canteen. Sometimes, over the dish we sat there and talked, and bunked some classes.
Did you have any rifts with professors? Why?
During my final year at college, I had some issues with examinations because of shortage of attendance. That was the only rift I can recollect.
Where did you hang out in college with friends?
Sadly, Pala was a small town, and we had no hang-outs there. Occasionally, we went for a movie. Inside the college premises, our favourite spot was the backyard where we used to gather together, chat and sing songs.
What extracurricular activities were you involved in?
I offered prayers every day. I took part enthusiastically in most of the activities in college including music, dance and speech.
— parvathy@newindianexpress.com