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Reason to smile

K.R. Vijaya, who got the Lifetime Achievement Award, goes down memory lane...

LIFETIME OF ACHIEVEMENTS K.R. Vijaya

The smile is still intact. And there's reason for it. Cinema's "Punnagai Arasi" K. R. Vijaya was recently awarded Filmfare's Lifetime Achievement Award. With hundreds of films in all South Indian languages behind her, the actress is a household name in this part of the country.

"I cannot forget some people in the industry, who made my career happen," she says during a brief interview. "So, I dedicate this award to the directors and producers who helped shape my professional life."

Only films for me

That cinema is still so dear to her heart is evident as the conversation flows. "For me, it's been only films. Nothing else mattered. In fact, my circle of friends outside the cine world is limited. I'm grateful to director K.S. Gopalakrishnan, who not only launched me in films but also helped me act in my 100th film. It's thanks to him, I picked up the ropes of the profession."

Talking about one of the films that has left a lasting impression on her mind, the yesteryear actress says, "As far as films go, `Ootyvarai Uravu' has been an unforgettable one not only for me but also for my husband, Velayudham. It was during this film that we decided to get married. The way the story is handled tells a lot about director Sridhar's talent. He excelled in love triangles and sentimental fare as well."

Recalling her experiences with director A. P. Nagarajan, she says, "His portrayal was powerful when it came to historical films. What I like about him is the fact that the lofty plots will never shadow the artistes. Both get equal importance in his treatment. Another interesting facet of my career was the films I've done for director Thirumaran. He helped me break my typecast image in `Vaayadi'. Initially, I was a bit apprehensive. But with a director like him reposing faith in me, I went ahead and the film clicked. From then on, I was more open to a variety of scripts."

Talking about the smile that's made her so famous, Vijaya beams, "It's thanks to audience support. And of course, my dentist Dr. Janakiraman, who has also become a close family friend."

S. R. ASHOK KUMAR

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