Amsugi returns in new movie
DURBAN’S most loved or hated grandmother, Amsugi, will return to the big screen in February next year for the next instalment of the Broken Promises franchise.
This time, Amsugi will be searching for a potential bride for her “confused” grandson, Mandoz, played by Theshen Naicker (Aunty Sheila), in Broken Promises 4-EVER.
The fabulous and fit Kogie Naidoo, who plays Amsugi, is thrilled to resume her role and says viewers are in for a surprise.
“You can expect more comedy, more laughter and more drama,” said Naidoo, who turned 70 this year.
“I am excited to be back after a few years away from making movies. When the film’s producer, Kumaran Naidu, approached me to feature in the film, I jumped at the opportunity. I love acting. It is my passion,” said Naidoo, who would need to move from her home in Midrand, Johannesburg, when filming starts in Durban in September.
She began her career in the entertainment industry at a young age, performing on stage and in a band, before being approached to be part of the Broken Promises franchise which premiered in 2005.
“My parents planted the acting seed in me at a young age. My mother was a Tamil schoolteacher and always encouraged me to express myself. At the age of 11, I started performing on stage for theatrical acts and later joined a band. My father was also supportive and would take me to my performances and cheer me on. I was blessed with a wonderful family.”
After getting married at the age of 19, Naidoo moved to Chatsworth from her family home in Clairwood.
Despite becoming a mom to three daughters and two sons, her passion for acting, she said, had never waned. “I became a mother at age 20, but still wanted to pursue my dreams, but at the time there was no scope for Indian female actors.
“It was many years later that Kumaran contacted me after his parents, who I had known for years, suggested I feature in the first Broken Promises movie. I felt alive again, I was ecstatic.”
When asked how similar her character was to herself, she laughed.
“We are similar in terms of our protective nature, but I have wonderful and caring daughters-in-law and sons-inlaw, whom I share a deep bond with.”
Even though it has been years since her last movie, people still recognise her.
“When I go out with my family to the mall or restaurant, my children become official photographers, taking pictures of me with people who watched the movie.
“My children say they can’t go anywhere with me, I’m too famous, but I love knowing people love me and my character,” she said laughing.
When asked how she kept fit, Naidoo said her secret was drinking a lot of water and exercising.
“I love to look good all the time. I feel your appearance is a definition of your character. I visit the gym three times a week, follow a well-balanced diet and drink plenty of water.”
In her spare time, she enjoys cooking. Although she does not eat meat, she said she cooked a mean mutton breyani for her children and five grandchildren.
Naidoo unwinds with the works of her favourite author, James Patterson.