When K R Gokul, then eighteen years old, was asked to send in his photos for Aadujeevitham's audition, he had no idea what the future held for him. After seven years, the debutante is enjoying the success of the Blessy film. His portrayal of Hakeem, which was subtle and brilliant, left the audience in tears.

Gokul talks about his experience working on this much awaited Malayalam project in an interview with OTTplay. He also expresses his desire to work on more diverse films.

How did you get selected for this movie?

Being involved in theatre at school, I was once asked to submit my photos for Aadujeevitham's audition by my mentor. I received a call from Kochi from the assistant director, and Blessy Sir asked if I could do anything. Blessy sir enjoyed my monologue that I gave. We had a brief conversation during which I told him of my several state-level theatre awards. In addition, I was asked to play a significant scene from the movie, and two weeks later, I received a call to confirm my role.

The majority of your crucial time had been spent on sets. What would you say about the experience?

Without a doubt, I am the boy who grew up watching this movie. The entire cast and crew have been incredibly supportive. When I started shooting, I was the youngest person on the set, having been 18 years old when I started. They took care of me and gave me guidance; they treated me like a brother. That is why I felt so at ease on the sets. It was a worthwhile trip of a lifetime!

Like Prithviraj Sukumaran did for Najeeb, you underwent a physical metamorphosis for Hakeem. During this trip, did you ever feel worn out or hear remarks from family members who were concerned for you?

My parents used to beg me all the time, saying that the transformation was not enough. They were quite worried about me after they watched me lose so much weight! Amma lost her patience and called Blessy to give him a reprimand. But I was determined to give it my all.

My thoughts were limited to the fact that Najeeb and Hakeem had actually experienced these trying times. I think we are ineligible to be a part of their story, even if we have not contributed even a tiny amount of that suffering. As a sort of experiment to see how their lives would have turned out, I skipped baths for a period of fifteen days.

Many attributed the entire filming process to years of arduous labour, hardships, and sacrifices. Despite all the effort and commitment put into this film, have you ever been under pressure?

I never found it difficult, and really enjoyed it. Imagine a boy who has always wanted to appear in films getting such a great chance. Everyone on the cast and crew was my age and had worked in this field. A good actor, in my opinion, comes from both positive and negative life experiences. Gokul was the only person on the sets who appeared content, according to something Blessy Sir once said. Despite the severe weather and mental strain, I felt comfortable with them.

Ultimately, not everyone is fortunate enough to have such a wonderful opportunity in life. I wanted to savour every moment of it!

Since the real Hakeem has not come forward yet, have you tried to find out more about him at any point?

I had followed up with more questions regarding Hakeem's status. I think that, considering his age, Hakeem has probably experienced even more than Najeeb. It is possible that he did not fully process the trauma that would have happened. Though I would prefer to believe that he is watching everything, he is unwilling to go through the unpleasant memories again. I would much rather respect his choice!

Did you always have a strong desire to act?

I love acting, especially in theatre, where I can get feedback right away. I would love to play more roles in a variety of films where I could develop as an actor. Additionally, I would like to continue my education concurrently.

When your family saw you on the big screen, how did they respond?

Despite being in a wheelchair following an accident, my father attended the first show on opening day. After seeing the movie and me on the big screen, they were very emotional. They expressed their pride at being acknowledged as my parents. Is there any other honour I can receive in this life?

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