C ookery-cum-travelogue shows have become the staple of every television channel.
Given that the anchor contributes a lot to the success of such shows, Vishnu Raveendran is happy to have won over the audience.
Anchor of the show ‘Simply Naadan’ on Kappa TV, which explores the diversity and richness of our cuisine, Vishnu talks about the show and his experiences. Excerpts:
His journey to limelight
I am an electrical engineer and have been working with a firm for sometime. But I have always been in love with tinsel town and dreamt of becoming an actor. During my school and college days, I used to be take part in all kinds of cultural activities.
My tryst with television took place when I acted in the show ‘Just Fun Chumma’, a sitcom on Amrita TV. Besides playing the character Neeraj, I worked as an assistant director and, later, associate director of the programme.
On ‘Simply Naadan’
When Kappa TV was launched, I joined it as co-producer of a show, ‘Simplyy’, which pulled gags on unsuspecting passers by. Then came the offer to anchor ‘Simply Naadan’. We’ve completed a year of the show and have covered many places in Kozhikode, Thrissur, Ernakulam, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram.
Connecting with the audience
I am an absolute foodie and eating makes me the happiest! That obviously is reflected in my anchoring. I often make mistakes in front of the camera but I believe my viewers have enjoyed those moments. Also, I am not diplomatic in my opinion when I taste the food. I might not be harsh, but people know whether I really loved the food from the comments I make.
There are lots of cookery shows around and I’m happy that our show has got its regular viewers. In fact, my friends and family say that I have the best job in the world!
Experiences on the show
It was quite exciting to find that the same curry is made in different ways in different parts of Kerala, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian.
And each district has got its own special dishes. It is difficult to choose the best one. I loved the varieties of kanji I had at Chadayamangalam in Kollam, and different kinds of tea from a joint at Karamana in Thiruvananthapuram. However, no place can beat Kozhikode when it comes to sheer diversity of dishes. Nevertheless, there is a lot more to be explored.
Realising his dream
Acting is my ultimate ambition. I’ve done a few blink-and-miss appearances. However, I am quite excited about a few upcoming projects, such as Monayi Angane Aanayi, Nellika and Manglish .
‘Simply Naadan’ is aired at 7.35 p.m. on weekends on Kappa TV.
