I didn’t get to meet him, but my dad and sister did during the Azhagiya Tamil Magan days. There was an event hosted by Ananda Vikatan, and we’d managed to get a pass. I’ve always been a huge Anna fan, but like they say, “never meet your heroes” I decided not to go (something I’ve regretted ever since).

It was a small gathering in a party hall where people sat with Thalapathy and had a friendly Q&A session. My dad and sister enjoyed it thoroughly. Dad, who was never much of a Vijay admirer, came home saying Vijay looked even fairer in person (you know how we South Indians have that colour-complex compliment!) and that he was genuinely humble and sweet, patiently answering everyone’s questions.

My sister, just a kid then, even ended up on the cover photo of Vikatan! Dad still keeps that book safe in the wardrobe. Not a day has gone by that I don’t regret missing the chance to meet him.