'Nayika Nayakan' host Aswathy Sreekanth on why presence of mind matters

Aswathy Sreekanth has excelled in many roles including that of a radio jockey and a writer. She is now the new host of Mazhavil Manorama's popular reality show 'Nayika Nayakan'.

“Things like this don’t usually happen. When you get a call from one of your favourite shows to be an anchor, the excitement is too much”. Onmanorama caught up with Aswathy, whose trademark spontaneous responses gained her accolades, on her new role and its challenges.

Not a celeb

“I am happy that I am not treated as a celebrity, but as a family member,” she said. Aswathy was also the host of a popular comedy TV show before being roped in for 'Naayika Nayakan'.

“For six years, I had been in radio. When people recognized my voice then, it was a sheer delight. Now, when people make a connect with me via television, it's amazing. Unlike the younger generation, it's the elderly and the non resident Indians who have supported me in my journey till now,” she said.

Challenging task

Aswathy recently published a book 'Ttha Illaatha Muttaayikal', a collection of stories and childhood memories.

“I think television is more challenging when compared to radio or writing. In writing and radio, there's much more space. But in television, you need through preparations. You need to be conscious about the costumes and presentation. Until now, I was least bothered about these.”

Being your real self

And what is one quality that every VJ should have?

“Consciously doing something to grab attention would mean faking around. What we are should reflect in our persona. Presence of mind is key for being a good host or anchor.”

Aswathy believes that the audience should never be underestimated “because they will ultimately get to know what we are.”

Acting not on agenda

'Nayika Nayakan' is a talent hunt show to spot budding actors and actresses. But for Aswathy, acting is not her cup of tea. “The judging panel of the show is probably its biggest attraction,” she said.

Lal Jose is the judge, while Samvrutha Sunil and Kunchacko Boban are the mentors.

“The contestants, unlike in other shows, are way too matured and highly talented. The time with co-host Dain Davis is kind of fun,” she said.