I don’t mind being a ‘replacement’ actor: Unni Mukundan

Unni Mukundan, who plays the lead in two much anticipated films in M-Town, opens up about his dream role; ups and downs in his career; and his plans to get married soon
Tell us about your upcoming film, Vikramadityan?
Post Orissa, Lalu Sir (Lal Jose) had approached me for the role of Vikram in Vikramadityan. I was happy to bag a role in Lal Sir’s film so early in my career.Two things made me take up this film. First, it is a Lal Jose project, and secondly, two years ago, Dulquer and I had decided to work together in a film. I had done a cameo as myself in Theevram; this is our first full-fledged film together.
My character, Vikram, is a perfectionist. From a young age, he dreams of becoming a police officer and is focused. The best part about the role is that I could relate to my character. I was always fascinated by a cop’s uniform. My mom wanted me to join the armed forces. So wearing the uniform gave me immense pleasure. Post Vikramadityan, there is another project, which will see me again in the garb of a policeman.
Do you fear being overshadowed by Dulquer Salmaan in the film?
We are two different people and we have our own strengths as two individuals, so there is no such fear. We just gave our best shots.
What made you take up an item song in Rajadi Raja?
It is a cameo. After Mallu Singh, none of my films had dance numbers. It is exciting because I am exploring myself as an actor. My role in Mallu Singh was also an entirely different experience for me. There were fight sequences in the film; after watching it my mom was like, ‘where did you learn all this from’? My family never knew I could do all this, so through my films they are getting to know me better. Till date, I have not watched a film with my family and friends. I am planning to watch Vikramadityan at my hometown, Ahmedabad.
You have worked with both Mammootty and Dulquer. How was it sharing screen space with the two actors?
In Ajay Vasudev’s Rajadi Raja, I don’t have any combination scenes with Mammootty. It is only for a dance sequence that I am roped in. I am an ardent Mamookka fan; he took good care of me on the set too. He also asked the director not to give me any small role as I am a good actor. My film Bombay March 12 with Mammootty was critical acclaimed as well. Talking about Dulquer, he’s a down-to-earth guy. He is the only actor with whom I can discuss about everything under the sun.
You recently came up with a fitness video — Fat to Fit. Are you a fitness freak?
Till Class VIII, I was lean. It was my mother who introduced me to fitness. For the past 14 years, exercise has become a part of my daily routine. I became muscular at a young age and gained confidence too. I failed in Class VII, but I bounced back because of my exercise regime. Soon I became not only physically fit, but mentally too, and started doing well in studies.
I was offered Mallu Singh just because of my physique and that has been my biggest hit in my career.
How did you get into films?
The first time I saw a film was after Class X and it was a Hindi film. I slept throughout the film. The theatre was adjacent to my school and I was up to date about all the film changes. While I was in Class 12, I used to get a lot of attention for my physique and good looks. It was then that my family asked me to try out modelling. So for the first time, I walked the ramp in 2004 for a fashion week and I was chosen Mr Physique and Photogenic from 4,000 applicants. In fact, I was the youngest applicant. But acting was not on my mind. I wanted to get into direction. So I wrote a letter to director Lohithadas saying I want to meet him. I sent it along with my photograph and phone number. I was surprised when I got a call to meet the director. he ace director asked me to try out acting first as direction could happen any time.
My debut film was Seedan, the remake of Nandanam. Although I did a couple of films, it was through Vysakh’s Mallu Singh that I got noticed.
Any regrets about the choices you have made so far?
I have no regrets. If I hadn’t done those films, I wouldn’t have been what I am now. My success and failures are entirely dependent on my own decisions. I don’t have to blame anyone and enjoy both equally. I have grown as an actor with every film. Many people were of the opinion that I shouldn’t have taken up Orissa, but post that film, I bagged Vikramadityan.
You’re known as the ‘replacement’ actor. What do you have to say about that?
I don’t mind being a ‘replacement’ actor; at least those films are being made and I am a reason to generate more films.
How do you react to rumours?
Initially, I used to get hurt. After acting in Ithu Pathiramanal, I was linked up with Remya Nambeesan. That was the only link-up news so far. A magazine had carried it and they made business out of the rumour. If it was true, I wouldn’t have denied it.
Is marriage on the cards anytime soon?
I believe this is the right age to get married. I am looking forward to getting married in a year or so. I am looking for somebody outside the film industry, so that we can sit and talk peacefully. I want someone who understands me well. Although I look muscular, I am soft-hearted; I am not that difficult a person to deal with.
Do you have a dream role?
I would like to play a superhero, who kids would love to watch. Many youngsters look up to me, and I have never been able to do a film for them so far. I would also love to be a part of cute love stories. My next with Sharath A Haridaasan is a complete entertainer with lots of dance and drama.