Acclaimed filmmaker Blessy, from his debut film Kaazhcha to the recently released Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life), has over the years left an indelible mark on the hearts of cinephiles with his finesse and command over his craft.

While Mammootty starred in Blessy’s revered debut film Kaazhcha, the director later collaborated with Mohanlal on classics such as Thanmathra, Bhramaram, and Pranayam.

However, what is now doing the rounds on social media is Blessy’s revelation in a conversation with The New Indian Express (Express Dialogues), where he candidly spoke about his experiences with the two superstars of Mollywood.

“I think people are aware of the differences in their personalities — how they interact with others and their unique styles of acting. So, I need not elaborate further,” Blessy said.

He recalled moments from shooting with Mammootty, noting the actor’s discomfort with large crowds on set. During filming near Edathua Church (On the sets of Kaazcha), Mammootty told him: “What did you think — I’m Mammootty, not Madhavan (actor’s character in the film).” Blessy replied, “I can’t make this film thinking you are Mammootty. To me, you must be Madhavan.”

Blessy admitted he did not know where he found the courage to say such words to a superstar during his first film, but added that it stemmed from respect and closeness. “Mammootty and I share a bond rooted in affection. He understood what I meant,” he said.

"The director also recalled Mammootty’s advice on set: to raise his voice and speak with authority in order to manage the crew effectively, as Blessy was once soft-spoken. While shooting Palunku in the steep terrains of Thopramkudy, Mammootty arrived at the set after two days of filming. It was difficult for his car to reach the location, and people had to access the area by jeep or on foot. 'He started grumbling right away,' Blessy recounted. 'I remember him telling his wife during the filming of Palunku, “This feels like the edge of the earth — beyond this lies hell.” That was his way of expressing frustration with affection.'"

During the conversation, Blessy also spoke about his experience working with Mohanlal. While filming Bhramaram in a remote part of Nelliyampathy without water supply or generators, the crew expressed resistance. However, Blessy refused to shift the location. 'When I explained the situation to Lalettan, he simply said, “That’s all right. This place actually feels like Switzerland. Only by going through such hardships can we make such films.” Such words silenced all complaints,' the director added.

Blessy’s reflections translate not only into intriguing details of his experience working with Malayalam cinema’s two biggest stars, but also into the deep professional respect and personal warmth that underpin their collaborations. (With inputs from Agencies)