Crazy story behind Mohanlal's '5544' car number plate; actor Nandu reveals

Nandalal Krishnamoorthy, better known by his stage name Nandu has been in the film industry for decades. However, the actor received his breakthrough only in 2012 in Mohanlal’s movie ‘Spirit’. Since then, Nandu never had to look back and became an indispensable part of Mollywood films.

Nandu in a recent interview given to automotive journalist Baiju N Nair, opened up about his fight with Mohanlal for a special number plate.

Nandu:

In 1984, after selling family shares in Alappuzha, some money arrived in my pocket. It was just a small amount and I purchased a car with that. The price of that car was Rs 10,500 then. An uncle of mine was in the police force at the time and had good connections with the Transport Commission. At that time, the number in the KBT series was running. I told him I wanted the number 5544.

After some talks, the Transport Commissioner instructed other officials to give me that number. After three days, uncle visited me to reveal the sad news. He said I will get 5533 but not 5544, and stated some issues. I was adamant that I needed 5544 and was not ready to compromise.

It was only later that he revealed about getting a phone call from the minister saying that the number was already booked for Mohanlal’s Contessa. Later in one of my lighter moments with Lal sir, I told him “If I had been adamant, you wouldn’t have got the 5544”.