For the ‘Class of the 80s’ — actors and actresses from across the country — the November 17-18 weekend was filled with fun, entertainment, reminiscences about their work and experiences as part of their annual reunion, themed ‘Deep Purple’, to celebrate friendship and brotherhood.
This was the first time that the 80s’ reunion, which predominantly sees representation from the southern film industry, was held over two days. “While we have been toying with the idea of having the reunion over a weekend for a few years now, we did not think it would be possible given everyone’s schedule. This year, however, many said that they were keen to have it over two days and we decided to have it in Mahabalipuram,” said Suhasini Mani Rathnam. Ms. Suhasini, along with Lissy, were the hosts for the reunion and were joined by Rajkumar Sethupathy, Poornima Bhagyaraj, and Kushbu.
The eighth edition of the reunion saw 28 actors, including Chiranjeevi, Venkatesh, Sarath Kumar, Bhagyaraj, Nadhiya, Revathy, Ambika, Radha, Jackie Shroff, Parvathy Jayaram, and Sumalatha reunite.
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As part of the reunion, the stars participated in a ramp walk competition where the men’s team, led by Chiranjeevi, emerged the winner.
Ms. Suhasini said the idea for a reunion of the 80s stars came to her in 2009 when a few of them happened to meet at a wedding reception.
“We had such a good time catching up and bonding after so long that we decided to make it a regular affair. While it was initially just stars from the south, Jackie Shroff and Poonam Dhillon have been joining us for the past three years too,” she said.
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While the first day was packed with entertainment, including a music concert by singer Sriram, who sang a song each from the movie of every star who took part, the second day had the participants share their experiences, said Ms. Suhasini.
Previous editions of the reunion have seen Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan and Mohanlal in attendance as well.