Covid-19 has impacted the world and how. From restrictions in holding public events, travel embargos, the dip in economy… the virus is not just a global pandemic and public health crisis.
According to Virus actress Rima Kallingal, the coronavirus, which has caused several businesses to fold, is the reason why she has decided to close down her dance studio Mamangam in Kochi. The actress-cum-danseuse took to social media to announce the decision. Expressing gratitude to those associated with Mamangam, she wrote, “I have decided to close down the Mamangam studios and the dance classes wing after the corona fiasco hitting us. It was a labour of love and there are so many memories associated with this place. The high energy dance classes, dance rehearsals, film screenings, workshops, flood relief collection camps, debates and discussions, shootings, everything will always echo in all our hearts.”
Rima, who was named the first runner up in the Miss Kerala 2008, made her acting debut in Shyamaprasad’s Ritu. The actress who won the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actress Award in 2013 for her performance in movies such as 22 Female Kottayam and Nidra has acted in films such as Husbands in Goa, Ayalum Njanum Thammil, Natholi Oru Cheriya Meenalla, Rani Padmini and Clint. Her upcoming movie is Santhoshathinte Onnaam Rahasyam, which she has scripted herself. The actress runs a production company called OPM Cinemas, which produced movies such as Virus and Mayanadhi.
Rima who married director Aashiq Abu in November 2013, set up her dance institute Mamangam, in 2014. A well-known art joint in Kochi, the dance studio and performance space has put up several productions such as 'Yamuna', a collaboration with musician Sreevalsan J Menon, which was led by Rima herself, for instance. The dancer recently directed a performance titled 'Pirouette'. However, as the show must go on, Rima said, the dance company “will take this journey forward on stage and screens”.
Meanwhile several of Rima’s celebrity friends have reached out to her on social media. Poornima Indrajith wrote, “To let go is the most difficult acts for us humans. Today Rima, you’ve outdone yourself by showing the courage to break free from what weighs you down!! You have empowered yourself with this act of self love!! More power to you, I love you. (sic)”
Singer Sayonara Philip wrote, “Mamangam will def be missed for sure. However, Rima, you are the light, and u know that. More and more mangams on its way dear!”
Actress Darshana Rajendran said, “Mamangam was home for all of us. Thank you. Big hugs and lots of love for everything that’s coming. (sic)”
