Standing next to Mammootty sir left me starstruck, reveals Viji Venkatesh

Viji Venkatesh, who charmed Malayali audiences with her role in the film 'Paachuvum Albhuthavilakkum', starring Fahadh Faasil, is now gearing up for her second movie, Dominic and the Ladies' Purse. Directed by Gautham Vasudev Menon, the film features Mammootty in the lead role.

Recently, Mammootty Kampany, the actor’s production house, shared a video where Viji spoke about her experience working on the film. She recalled how the opportunity came about unexpectedly. “I got an unexpected message from Gautham, saying he was making his first Malayalam film with Mammootty and wanted me to play a role. I was completely taken aback. To be offered a chance to act alongside Mammootty sir is incredible! And who doesn’t know Gautham?”

Sharing her initial nervousness, she said, “I came to Kochi, and the shoot started. There was a scene where Mammootty sir pointed out, ‘You had three lines, and you took three minutes for it.’ I told him, ‘Sir, I’m standing next to you, and I’m mesmerised.’”

She expressed her admiration for the atmosphere on set, describing it as warm and familial. “Everyone on set was so nice, like a family. Malayalam cinema has always maintained a standard that no other industry has. Everyone was so natural, so calm, and there were no egos. It’s been a fantastic experience,” she said.