Newcomer Monisha Vijaykumar fondly remembers being on the sets of one of her father's (Kannada actor Vijay Kumar) movies as a young child. She confidently declared to those around her that one day she would return as an actress. "My father was strongly opposed to it at the time. It is fate that I will soon be appearing in a film directed by my dad, who once discouraged me from pursuing this career path," she shares. Having just graduated from the New York Film Academy, Monisha expresses how the program went beyond her expectations. "Initially, I only wanted to study acting. However, I also received training in editing and direction, which provided me with a deeper understanding of filmmaking. Upon completing the course, my main aim was to secure a film role and be on a film set," she explains. In the movie City Lights, I portray a young, naive girl with big aspirations. Many wonder why I did not choose a glamorous role for my debut. Glamour can come later. Right now, I wish to be recognized as a talented performer. Monisha Vijaykumar admits that coming home was not without its challenges. "I had many sleepless nights worrying about how I would land my first opportunity. My father observed quietly during this time. Eventually, he informed me, 'I want you to star in my upcoming film, City Lights.' I felt both relieved and astonished. Although he had been considering this script for some time, I never expected him to cast me in it. He wanted me to earn it and experience uncertainty before granting me this chance," she reflects.