'Cinema was a way to survive while painting was my passion'; Malayalis' dear Sheela opens up

KOZHIKODE: "I only heard about it after coming to Kerala—that there’s a big discussion here about skin color. I live in Chennai, and over there, no one talks about it. If someone does, he'll learn a lesson. It’s surprising that Kerala, which is often described as highly progressive, is still engaged in such debates about complexion," said Malayalam film star Sheela.

She wasn’t in Kozhikode to act in a film but rather to engage in conversation about her lesser-known world of painting. Her art exhibition, Sheela's Star Art Surprise, is currently on display at the art gallery in the city until April 17. The aim of the show is to raise funds to support cancer patients in Kerala—a cause close to her heart.

Q. Malayalis never expected Sheelamma as a painter?

"You all probably still remember me as Karuthamma, Ummaachu, or Kochuthresya. But even before my film career, painting was my constant companion. I started with painting. But painting alone wasn’t enough—so, I stepped into cinema. Cinema eventually took over my life, but whenever I had a break, I always found my way back to my brushes, acrylics, and watercolors."

Q. What gives you the most joy these days?
"My paintings, without a doubt."

Q. What prompted you to hold an exhibition?
"It was during the floods that I began thinking about how I could use my artwork for the greater good. That led to my first exhibition in Kochi, and the proceeds from that were handed directly to the Chief Minister. Honestly, I’ve never experienced a joy like that. I organized this exhibition in Kozhikode after seeing the increasing distress of cancer patients. There are 137 artworks on display. I don’t want even a single rupee from it."

Q. Any new films?
"None in Malayalam. I have a few in Telugu and Tamil. People from here do approach me with stories, but after listening, I find I only have three or four scenes. If I get a role with substance, I’ll act—but not for side roles."

Q. Alongside painting, you’ve also been writing?
"Yes, I write stories. But I never had the chance to publish anything—until DC Books released Kuyiline Koode, a collection of my stories. After that, many called me, urging me to focus more on writing. But where’s the time?"

Q. There’s a big controversy surrounding Empuraan. Any thoughts?
"That’s their business. Cinema, beyond being an art, is also a business. Please don’t drag me into that. I’ve come here simply as a painter."