Mammootty fan and first Indian-origin Australian Minister meets the superstar in Kochi

Kochi: Jinson Anto Charles, Australia's first Indian-origin minister, had an exciting reunion with his childhood idol, Malayalam film legend Mammootty. The meeting took place in Kochi, where Jinson, a long-time fan of the actor, shared a moment of nostalgia. “Still the same fanboy…” Jinson remarked, recalling the days when he used to fly paper confettis in the theatres of his native place, Pala.

Jinson, who had just returned to India for the first time since becoming a minister, had been extremely busy with official meetings in Delhi, Thiruvananthapuram, and several receptions in his hometown. Despite his packed schedule, he made sure to take time out to visit Mammootty in Kochi before his return journey.

The meeting took place at the location of Mammootty's upcoming film project. Mammootty’s conversation began with a discussion about Australia’s largest airline, Qantas. He asked whether a direct Qantas flight from Kochi to Australia would benefit Malayalis and if the government could take any action to make it happen.

Official invitation from government

In his role as Minister for cinema and other portfolios, Jinson took the opportunity to present Mammootty with an official letter from the Australian government, inviting the actor to visit Australia.

This meeting also marked a connection between Jinson and Mammootty. In 2007, when Mammootty launched a free eye care programme called ‘Kazcha’ in collaboration with Angamaly Little Flower Hospital, Jinson, then a nursing student, had been one of the leading student volunteers. Later, Jinson also played an active role in the Care and Share International Foundation, founded by Mammootty.