Malayalam Nadigar Dulquer Salmaan in o kadhal kanmani in cinebuzz nadigarstills

It’s a big week for Dulquer Salmaan. And he’s enjoying every minute of it.

This Friday, his film with Mani Ratnam — O Kadhal Kanmani — hits screens. And yesterday, he made many heads turn at the launch of men’s platinum jewellery by Prince Jewellery.

Not many know that this young actor, son of popular star Mammootty, is very much a Chennai boy.

“I’ve done all my schooling at Chennai — it’s always home for me,” he told The Hindu Metroplus, “All my growing up years have been spent here and I have really fond memories associated with the city.”

His father, who has been a hot favourite in Malayalam cinema for many years, is very happy with his progress — both as an actor and a person. “He’s very proud and secure. He knows I’m finally doing something worthwhile with life!”

While Dulquer has been active in Mollywood for the past few years, he’s making in-roads into Tamil cinema in a big way now. After a good outing in Vaayai Moodi Pesavum, his biggie with Mani Ratnam has been the talk of the town. So, how did his father react when he bagged a Mani Ratnam project? “He reacted as a father and not as an actor. He knew I was in the best hands possible. He’s proud that I got an opportunity to act in such a prestigious film; he’s just basking in that.”

The young actor is a huge hit among youngsters and enjoys a massive female following. A lot of that stems from his style statement, which is considered simple and elegant. Ask him about that, and he says, “For me, style is all about confidence. What you wear, both in terms of clothing and jewellery, should add to your confidence.” And that’s exactly why he likes platinum.

“It isn’t loud. I might play characters that are loud in the movies, but in real life, I’m not loud in terms of personality. Platinum, I feel, is a bit like that.”