JOIN USShe graces the pages of fashion magazines with as much ease as while diving into the deep blue sea. Model, actor, DJ, surfer, television host — Paloma Monnappa juggles many roles with elan. The half Coorgi and half Tibetan loves the ocean and is the ideal beach bum who is also into surfing.
She made her acting debut in Malayalam opposite Dulquer Salmaan in ‘Neelakasham Pachakadal Chuvanna Bhoomi’. Her latest project is ‘Sailing the Kalizma’ by TheVibe, where she and Emanuel Abeywardene play the protagonists.
The original feature showcases a journey aboard the world’s oldest yacht onto the Indian ocean.
Surfacing briefly from the water, Paloma talks to Rajitha Menon about a life spent doing what she loves.
Some time management skills you have...
My work involves things that I love doing so it’s easy to find time.
Which of your interests is closest to your heart?
I think music and surfing...I couldn’t live without either of them.
Tell us about your experience of working on ‘Sailing The Kalizma’?
It was such a magical experience being out at sea in the Seychelles, a real tropical paradise. We went surfing to Police Bay, one of the most pristine beaches I have ever seen in my entire life. We went free diving under the granite caves, barbecued our own fish and fed mangoes to Aldabra giant tortoises.
The best part about surfing?
I have always been drawn to the sea ever since I was a baby. Surfing makes you feel connected to the ocean, you develop a sense of respect for it. Just being out there on your surfboard calms you and creates feelings of awe, peace and joy.
How was Dulquer as a co-actor?
Dulquer Salmaan is one of the most humble actors I have met. He has no airs at all; such a striking contrast to his counterparts in Bollywood. He is genuine and smart and made me feel very comfortable.
Movies in the pipeline...
Yes, a Tamil film where I have a similar role and also another fun travel project with TheVibe.
What is the strangest thing a person has said to you?
A Sri Lankan guy at a bar once invited me to his house to come see his elephants. Oh, and he also wanted to feed me. That was kind of strange!
Three things about you no one knows...
I am a complete tomboy, I love to sing and I am an old soul when it comes to music preferences.
What would you like your next avatar to be?
Female Captain Planet — the world desperately needs one!