Actor Jai has a packed schedule this year — he is currently working in a Gautham Menon production and soon, he is to act in a film to be directed by him.

Most of Jai's films have been with debutant directors and they have all turned out to be mega hits. "I would always want to give an opportunity to aspiring directors.

They have challenging scripts but have to wait for an actor to sign on. Most of my hit films have been with debutant directors and I would like to introduce more such directors in my upcoming films. I think I am the favourite actor of assistant directors!" Jai quips.

Jai is currently hitting the gym and is on a crash diet to get into shape for an action script to be directed by biggie Gautam Menon. "After watching Engeyum Eppodhum, Gautam Menon personally called me and appreciated my work. He also told me that we would be working together.

To begin with, I am working for his production house in a film directed by Prabhudeva's associate director. I am gearing up for Gautam's film as well; it is an action script and I am working hard to stay in shape for the film."

Jai regrets a decision he made early in his career and still feels bad about it. "While I was shooting for a film in Thirunelveli, Gautam Menon asked me to go to his office and commit for a film.

As I was shooting, I couldn't go. After a few months, I came to know that he had called me to offer Simbu's role in Vinnai Thandi Varuvaaya. Oh, that was my biggest miss."

After his link-up with actress Anjali, Jai seems to be avoiding films with her. After EE, they were supposed to be back with a Telugu remake. But the leading lady in the remake has suddenly changed.
"I am not avoiding her, the producers themselves move on to other options to stay away from rumours. Also, Anjali is extremely busy this year and due to prior commitments, she was not able to give time for our project.

Anyways my focus is on doing quality films and very clearly, nothing else," comments Jai.

Jai assists Venkat Prabhu on the sets. Any plans of becoming a director? "Working on a Venkat Prabhu film is just a holiday for me.

I learn a lot during the shoots and I love assisting him on the sets – it is a good learning process for me. I accompany Venkat on all his location hunts and it is great fun.

I have no plans of directing a film. I hope to be back on Venkat's project soon. There are two directors from whom I always expect a call — Sasikumar and Venkat."