Malayalam cinema enthusiasts will recall Pavam Pavam Rajakumaran, a comedy film released in 1990 that remains a beloved classic. Now, director Lal Jose shares fond memories of the late actor and screenwriter Sreenivasan, reflecting on a memorable experience during the film’s production and highlighting the creative spirit that defined the project. His recollections offer a glimpse behind the scenes of a film celebrated for its witty script and enduring performances.
Pavam Pavam Rajakumaran, a beloved Malayalam film, premiered in 1990.
Director Lal Jose fondly remembers the late actor, screenwriter, and director Sreenivasan. He shared anecdotes from his time as an assistant director on Pavam Pavam Rajakumaran, recalling a memorable experience on set.
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“During the shoot for Pavam Pavam Rajakumaran, I often stood in for Sreenivasan when setting up the lighting,” Lal Jose explained. “We were nearly the same height, which was a lucky break for me.”
“Pavam Pavam Rajakumaran was a film that really changed the nature of the humor in Sreenivasan’s writing. On set, when positioning actors for lighting, assistant directors or cinematographers would usually stand in. I was consistently asked to take Sreenivasan’s place. Because Jayaram was taller than me, they’d use Surendran and Saleem instead for his positioning. But since Sreenivasan and I were about the same height, I got to stand in for him. I considered that a real honor.”
“Before Sreenivasan arrived, director Kamal would explain how he moved, and I would walk through the space to help the team adjust the lighting accordingly. Then, after a rehearsal with Sreenivasan, everything would be perfect.”
“That film allowed me to meet so many new people – Siddique, Maniyanpilla Raju, Mamukoya, Innocent, Lathika, and Unnikrishnan, to name a few. It also sparked a friendship with Sreenivasan. I remember often losing control and laughing during his scenes and performances. Once, a shot had to be cut because I was laughing so hard. Sreenivasan joked that my laughter was fine, as long as it wasn’t in the final take. Kamal sir chimed in, saying I shouldn’t be held accountable because I was such a big Sreenivasan fan.”
Pavam Pavam Rajakumaran, directed by Kamal, was released in 1990. The film starred Jayaram, Rekha, Siddique, Mamukoya, Maniyanpilla Raju, and many others, and was a critical and commercial success. The film remains a classic in Malayalam cinema, celebrated for its witty script and memorable performances.
Content Highlights: Director Lal Jose shares fond memories of Sreenivasan on the sets of `Pavam Pavam Rajakumaran`, recalling his unique humour and impact. Read more!
Published: January 31, 2026, 6:17 pm IST
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