Newcomer Monisha Vijaykumar fondly reminisces about being on the sets of one of her father's (Kannada actor Vijay Kumar) movies as a kid, confidently declaring to those around her that one day she would return as an actress. "Back then, my father was strongly opposed to it. It's fate that I will soon be acting in a film directed by my dad, who once discouraged this career path," she recounts.

Recently graduated from the New York Film Academy, Monisha shares how the program surpassed her expectations. "Originally, I just wanted to learn acting. However, I also received training in editing and direction, providing me with a deeper understanding of filmmaking. After completing the program, my sole aim was to secure a role in a film and step onto a film set," she elaborates.

In City Lights, I portray a naive young girl with ambitious dreams. People often ask why I didn't opt for a glamorous role for my debut. Glamour can come later. First and foremost, I aim to establish myself as a performer," Monisha Vijaykumar asserts.

Monisha acknowledges that returning home presented its challenges. "I had many sleepless nights worrying about how I would get my first opportunity. My father observed silently throughout that period. Then, he eventually informed me, 'I want you to star in my next film, City Lights.' I felt both relieved and shocked. He had this script in mind for some time, but 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.