Newcomer Monisha Vijaykumar fondly remembers being on the sets of one of her father's (Kannada actor Vijay Kumar) movies as a child, confidently declaring to those around her that one day she would become an actor. "Back then, my father was strongly against it. It's fate that I will soon be appearing in a film directed by my dad, who once discouraged me from pursuing this career path," she reflects. After recently graduating from the New York Film Academy, Monisha explains how the program exceeded her expectations. "Initially, I just wanted to focus on acting. However, I also received training in editing and direction, which provided me with a deeper understanding of filmmaking. Upon completing the program, my main aim was to secure a film role and step onto a film set," she shares. In "City Lights," I portray a naïve young girl with big aspirations. Many people wonder why I didn't opt for a glamorous role for my debut. Glamour can come later. My primary goal is to be recognized as a performer," Monisha affirms. She acknowledges that her return home presented challenges. "I had many sleepless nights worrying about how I would land my first opportunity. My father quietly observed throughout this time. Eventually, he informed me, 'I want you to feature in my next film, City Lights.' I felt both relieved and astonished. Although he had this script in mind for some time, I never anticipated him casting me. He wanted me to earn it and experience uncertainty before offering me this chance," she recalls.