Jewel Mary, popular VJ and actress, has fond memories of the house at the FACT staff quarters in Aluva, where she spent most of her childhood days. Her father Sebi Antony was an official at the FACT. Her mother’s name is Rose Mary and she has two siblings, Jibin and Jeeva. Jewel recalls that the housing complex was almost like a small township with a children’s park, school, hospital and even a theater.
“All quarters were closely connected and everyone shared amazing relationships with each other. The township has now lost its old charm. However, for me, those memories are still beloved,” admits Jewel.
After completing class 8, Jewel moved into her father’s ancestral home in Thripunithura. It was a quaint little house with mud tiled roof. The actress says that she loved the house which was away from the bustle of the city. It stood peacefully, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful nature. Six years ago, the house was renovated by constructing a few more rooms above the existing structure.
Jewel, who displayed artistic flair from a young age itself, used to write and direct short plays at school. She became a household name after she made a successful television debut as one of the hosts of D4, the super hit dance reality show aired on Mazhavil Manorama. Her stint in the mini screen opened doors to the silver screen as well. Jewel acted opposite mega star Mammootty in the critically acclaimed movie 'Pathemari'. It was at Mazhavil Manorama that she met her future husband Jenson, who is a producer there. The couple, who became friends, fell in love and soon tied the knot.
Life in a flat
“We are currently staying in a rented 3 BHK flat in Thripunithura. Though it is a rented home, we have managed to turn it into our own special space. I have even decorated it a bit. There is a small library, prayer area, a shelf where all my trophies are neatly arranged and also a display rack where I proudly exhibit the beautiful curios that I have purchased during my trips to different places. Our friends often get pleasantly surprised seeing the charming decorations at our flat,” says Jewel with a smile.
Favorite corner
Jewel revealed that she has been interested in gardening since the last two years. “I have even turned our balcony into a small ‘Eden’ garden. This balcony is in fact my favorite corner in the house. From here, I can see the beautiful lake nearby and the fishermen in small boats. When I relax at this space, I am able to re – live, in my heart, the beautiful memories of my childhood home,” notes Jewel.
House of in-laws
“Jenson’s home is at Changanassery. My in–laws love pets, and they keep doves, cat, dog and hens at their house. Jenson often pulls my leg saying my arrival at the house has, in fact, completed the group. It feels like we are on a holiday whenever we go there from Kochi to spend some amazing time with the family,” concludes Jewel.
