I am aware of nepotism, so I chose not to reveal my father’s name during audition: Nanda

Alappuzha Gymkhana, the latest film by director Khalid Rahman, continues its dynamic run in theatres, striking a chord with audiences through a spirited blend of unshakeable friendship, adolescent romance, and high-octane boxing. Among the fresh faces in this energetic film is debutante Nanda Nishanth, daughter of veteran Malayalam actor Nishanth Sagar.

In an exclusive conversation with Mathrubhumi.com, Nanda shared her journey into cinema, her first audition experience, and the unforgettable moments on set.

An accidental beginning

“I first came across the casting call on Instagram, posted by the film’s production house,” said Nanda, who was in her final year of college at the time. “It was shared in a WhatsApp group with my friends, and they encouraged me to give it a shot. Since I was busy with my project work, I wasn’t sure I could manage an audition, so I initially didn’t pay much attention.”

The casting call later caught the attention of her father, who encouraged her to apply. “He said, ‘This is Khalid Rahman’s film—it’s worth trying. They’ve asked for an introduction video, just do it. You’re one among hundreds sending it, but it’s a fun experience, even if nothing comes of it.’ That really motivated me,” Nanda recalled.

Interestingly, despite being the daughter of a well-known actor, Nanda chose not to mention her father’s name in the audition tape. “Given the ongoing discussions around nepotism, I introduced myself simply as ‘Nanda’ without revealing my full name.”

A series of auditions

After a few days, Nanda was contacted by an associate director from the team. She was asked to enact a scene—though not one from Alappuzha Gymkhana—and send in a recorded performance. “I filmed it and sent it over. They said they’d get back to me, but two weeks passed without any response. I assumed that was the end of it.”

However, she was later invited to attend an in-person audition in Kochi. “It was the same scene again, but more detailed. They recorded it, thanked me, and once again, there was a long wait. I began to think the opportunity had passed.”

But fate had other plans. Nanda received another call, this time asking her to meet the director in person. “I was asked to come to Spartans Martial Arts School in Kochi, where boxing training for the film was underway. That’s where I met Khalid Rahman for the first time.”

Meeting the director

“I was still buzzing from watching Manjummel Boys, so when I saw him, I was more excited to meet the ‘driver chettan’ from the film than the director,” she laughed. “I even told him how much I loved his performance, and he graciously thanked me.”

Nanda admitted she was nervous during the meeting, but Rahman quickly put her at ease, engaging in a warm conversation before gradually introducing her to the film’s plot. “At one point, I wondered whether he explains the plot to every auditionee. But then he told me that I was being considered for the role of Anupama. That’s when it hit me—I had been selected!”

As Alappuzha Gymkhana continues to gain traction with audiences and critics alike, Nanda’s heartfelt entry into cinema stands as a testament to fresh talent and a grounded approach to opportunity. With her natural charisma and a strong debut under an acclaimed director, Nanda Nishanth is undoubtedly a name to watch in the Malayalam film industry.