Malayalam director Kamal has revealed how the casting of his 2018 Malayalam film ‘Aami’ went through several changes before Manju Warrier took on the lead role. The filmmaker initially considered Vidya Balan to portray writer Kamala Surayya, also known as Kamala Das. However, Vidya Balan eventually withdrew from the project. Kamal then approached Nayanthara, but she expressed a lack of confidence in playing the character.In an interview with Vanitha, Kamal recalled the difficulties the team faced while trying to finalize the lead actress. He also explained why Manju Warrier eventually became his choice to portray the celebrated writer.
Vidya Balan was the first choice for ‘Aami’
‘Aami’, released on February 9, 2018, is a biographical drama based on the life of poet and author Kamala Das, who later became known as Kamala Surayya. Written and directed by Kamal, the film explored significant aspects of the writer’s personal life and relationships.Vidya Balan was initially considered to play the central character. However, her withdrawal left the filmmakers searching for another actress who could portray the writer. Kamal said several names were discussed during this period, but finding a suitable replacement proved difficult.
Why the team approached Nayanthara
Kamal explained that the producer had already invested a substantial amount in the film. The project also needed a commercially established actress to support its business prospects, including the sale of satellite rights.“After Vidya Balan backed out, the question was who would play Aami. Several names were being considered. The producer had already spent a considerable amount of money on the film. For the business to work out, including the satellite rights sale, the film needed a leading actress with an established name. That was how we approached Nayanthara. Her makeup test was also completed. However, Nayanthara said she did not have the confidence to portray the character. I, too, could not imagine Nayanthara as Madhavikutty.”The uncertainty over the lead role delayed the project. Kamal said he had never faced such a situation in his filmmaking career, as the team struggled to make a final decision.
Manju Warrier eventually came on board
With the casting unresolved, the filmmakers eventually considered Manju Warrier. Kamal said the producer was firm about choosing her for the role. The director also believed that the actress could bring the character to life convincingly.“Even then, we had not decided who would play the lead in ‘Aami’. Since we could not finalize the actress, the film’s shoot had to be postponed indefinitely. This was the first time I had faced such a situation in my filmmaking career. Eventually, after discussions, we considered Manju Warrier. The producer stood firm on that choice. I was confident that Manju could portray the character with ease. When I called Manju, her first question was, ‘Vidya Balan had backed out, right?’” Kamal added.
What ‘Aami’ explored
‘Aami’ focused on the life and relationships of Kamala Das, a prominent figure in Indian literature. The film explored her relationship with her husband and her later connection with a suitor from another religion. Manju Warrier played Kamala Surayya, while the cast also included Murali Gopy, Tovino Thomas, Anoop Menon and Anand Bal.Released in 2018, the film received recognition at the Kerala State Film Awards, winning two awards.
