Kerala, by itself, is a big brand. No wonder Malayalis love wearing their identity on sleeve. So, it was just a matter of time before the whole of Kerala lapped up the tune of Pepper Media Creation's Malayali anthem, 'I'm a Mallu', featuring Bengaluru-based RJ Rinosh George.
The wacky, peppy number, which celebrates the ubiquitous Malayali, has nearly broke the Internet, making 'Mallu' hearts all over the world swell with pride. From the love of beef, to the bro-code 'Aliyaa', to the adulation for Mollywood movies, the 'Mallu' song revels in Kerala glory, without pandering to stereotypes.
"Call me Madirasi and your ellu (bone) I'll break," you are warned!
George, 24, who hails from Varapuzha in Ernakulam, is not a greenhorn in the music scene. Apparently, the Bengaluru-bred musician's first single was a payback to the city he grew up in: 'This is Bengaluru', which was released a year ago, had created quite a ripple on social media.
In a free-wheeling conversation with Onmanorama, George tells us more about the 'Mallu' anthem.
The name Rinosh George got popular among Keralites within a few days. Now, people know you as “the mallu anthem man”. How do you feel?
I feel overwhelmed and extremely proud of being called so. I knew the video would garner wide audience response and I have given my best in it. The huge acceptance of the video is like a dream come true for me. I have been receiving appreciations from Keralities all over the world.
Weren't you criticised for the 'mallu' usage?
I'm from Varapuzha in Ernakulam, although I'm settled in Bengaluru. My friends here affectionately call me 'Mallu'. Even my friends from Kerala don't find it derogatory. It's just a short form of Malayali. I'm proud to be a Mallu and that's what I have said aloud in the song. Yes, there are people who criticised me for using the word 'Mallu', but majority of the Malayalis took it in the stride. And, the word 'Mallu' is used just in my chorus portion. I start off the song by saying - "Yes, I'm a Malayali."
Your inspiration for this song?
After the success of the 'Bengaluru video', my friend Paul Mathew, who is known for his role in 'Ayyapante Amma Neyapam Chuttu' movie, asked me to do a video on the theme of being a Malayali.
Also, my ultimate aim is the Malayalam film industry. And I see this as a platform to put my skills on display. I made the video in such a way that it would be liked by people and ultimately, catch a lot of attention. Thank God, it worked.
This might sound funny, but I always believe that I can be a star and I'm confident that it will happen one day.
Didn't Mammooty fans make a fuss for mentioning just Mohanlal movies?
That was not intentional at all. It just came up while writing. Both Mohanlal and Mammootty are a Malayali's pride. I'm an ardent fan of Mammukka and in a couple of months, I will be doing a song dedicated to just him.
What do you cherish more - acting or singing?
I like to do everything that's creative. I love doing music and at the same time, I love being an actor. I also like writing.
