GK Pillai sir acted as my father in a TV serial for more than four years. I called him ‘Acha’ (father) and he used to call me ‘mole’ (daughter).
The way he spoke onscreen is exactly how he spoke in real life too. His confidence belied his age. He insisted on wearing stylish outfits. He used to enjoy and laugh when he saw mimicry artists imitating his style of bell-bottom pants and belt.
He always came for my dance programs that were held in his hometown. He would visit everyone at my house even if I am not home, whenever he travels via Perumbavoor. The sets were thrilled when he opened his treasure chest of stories.
Before entering the movies, he worked in the army and in the navy too. Most of his stories were from those days. He always remembered the great friendship that he had shared with Nazir sir and Sheelamma. When we visit his house, he would show us his awards and gifts with the excitement of a little kid.
