He has been a part of Malayalam Cinema for more than three decades. Through his many roles as a hero, villain, comedian and a supporting actor, he has become an indispensable part of Mollywood. He has been the secretary of AMMA (Association for Malayalam Movie Artists) for 18 years now and over the years, he has also donned the role of a seasoned event planner! He has been the mastermind behind popular shows like the Asianet Film Awards, Amrita Film awards, Surya Film awards, Mazhavillazhakil AMMA, Gulf Malayalam Music Awards (GMMA) and several AMMA Shows to name a few. RITZ is in conversation with the multi- talented actor and event planner, Edavela Babu, who talks of his journey.
You started acting at a very young age. Looking back, how has your journey been as an actor?
My first film was ‘Edavela’ which was released in 1982. There were four main characters in the movie and I was the hero. Ever since then, the name ‘Edavela’ stuck to me. No one else in the film industry has that name. I had not completed college back then and my parents were insistent on my finishing a degree. So during that phase, I did dubbing for other artists and took a break from acting. But through the years, I have always been a part of the films and the industry I have done over 200 films till date.
You have held the post of Secretary of AMMA for the last 18 years ever since its inception. How do you handle the odds that come with the post?
Yes, I have been lucky enough to hold that post for so long. It is not easy to handle the responsibilities that come with it as you have to handle so many stars. But one has to be humble, patient and diplomatic no matter what the situation. It is very important to maintain a cordial relationship with everyone. Being a patient listener helps! If you respect and care for others, eventually, others will reciprocate the same. I think being a chronic bachelor also helps as I don’t have to face tensions at home! (laughs) My life completely revolves around Cinema and event management and I absolutely enjoy what I am doing.
You are the mastermind behind award shows held in Kerala and abroad. What is the secret behind the success of your shows?
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