He was always warm, accessible: Sudev Nair remembers VS Achuthanandan’s acting debut in ‘Campus Diary’

When VS Achuthanandan, the veteran Communist leader and former Kerala Chief Minister who passed away on Monday, made his acting debut at the age of 93, it surprised many and left a lasting impact on those involved in the film. His role in ‘Campus Diary’, a 2016 political drama, wasn’t just any cameo. The leader played himself, joining a group of students protesting against a powerful bottling plant that had disrupted their local water supply.

The film, directed by Jeevandas, starred Sudev Nair and Suraj Venjaramoodu. Sudev, who was early in his career at the time, recalls how the idea of getting Achuthanandan on board seemed almost impossible.

“'Campus Diary' was a film about student activism. I was very early in my career, and when the makers said they were trying to get VS Achuthanandan for a cameo, I thought there was no way he would agree to be a part of this small project with actors nobody really knew,” Sudev recalls.

“But of course, these things are immaterial to someone like VS, and he immediately agreed. Not only did I have the good fortune of being on the same stage with him during the scene where he delivers a speech, but our dubbing also happened on the same day — so I got to meet him again in a more private setting.”

The scene in which Achuthanandan plays himself was filmed in Koothuparamba, Kannur, and it was a powerful moment. The political icon, known for his advocacy of the people’s rights, joins the students in their fight, offering his solidarity through a stirring speech. His presence in the movie blurred the lines between fiction and reality, giving the film an authentic touch of activism.

“I even shared a personal problem my parents had run into with a fraudulent builder, and he immediately connected me to his secretary, who stayed in touch and helped from then on,” Sudev continues.

“He was always very warm, accessible, and approachable — with no airs whatsoever. Just as a people’s leader should be. His legacy will rightly live on forever.”

Achuthanandan, who attended the first screening of the film with his wife and son, Arun Kumar, had kind words to say about the film as well. After watching it, he remarked, “The movie has come out really well. It delivers a good message to the people.”

In the film, Achuthanandan didn’t just play a role; he added an invaluable layer of realism to the narrative. His presence in ‘Campus Diary’ serves as a poignant reminder of his commitment to the cause of the people.