Annie left showbiz for a family life 18 years ago when she married director Shaji Kailas. Mollywood beckoned her many times since, but Annie wanted to be with her family and just her family. But after a long hiatus she is back to miniscreen as a cookery show host in Amrita TV and has whipped up success. The beautiful Annie speaks about her second stint, her love for audience and how family is her only priority
Comeback
I came back to TV because only because Mata Amritanandamayi asked me. There is no question of me ever saying no to anything Amma asks. The moment she brought up the topic, I decided to do it. But, things weren’t easy. The long hiatus from the screen made camera seem like an alien thing. And, I was so scared and literally froze before the camera in the beginning, but things soon fell into track soon. The show has completed 50 episodes now and I am comfortable in my role.
Reaction
To say I was ‘happy’ would be oversimplification. It is beyond words. It is ethereal, the reaction of people, the love they shower on me. It is the same, nothing changed. They still love me like they did 18 years ago when I was popular in movies. The affection they shower instils confidence in me.
Annie’s Kitchen
The name of the show is the brainchild of the production team but I decide on the recipes and other details. People do tell me that the success of the show is in the fact that I get along well with the guests and one reason is because I believe in keeping it less formal. I am a person who do not like unnecessary formalities.
Then, the first guests in the show were friends from the industry who were well acquainted but even other wise I find it easy to warm up to people. Basically, I like to keep it simple, everything from my attire to the recipes. I decide on the dishes the day before the shoot and that depends on the likes and dislikes of the guests.
Criticism
My biggest critics are my three children. They make it a point to watch every show and pick up flaws and tips to better it. They know me better as a cook and a person, so I think they make wonderful critics. My husband too is very enthusiastic about my new role.
Future projects
As of now, I have no plans to venture into showbiz, except this. I am a very family-oriented person and love to spend every single moment with them.
My husband always encourages me but I find happiness being at home. And, yes this is the reason why I decided to decline all the film offers that came my way.
Her Pala accent
Annie has charmed her way to hearts, thanks to her Pala accent. However, Annie says she is just being herself in the show. “You won’t see me being formal. I am so broad minded and I like to be friendly to all and stick to no format”, says she.