Preetham Gubbi, who first came to prominence as the writer of the blockbuster Mungaru Male starring Ganesh before making a successful transition to direction with Haage Summane, has built a filmography that has balanced romance, family dramas and commercial entertainers. From Maleyali Jotheyali, Johnny Mera Naam Preethi Mera Kaam, Jaanu, Dil Rangeela, Boxer, Johnny Johnny Yes Papa, 99, Naanu Mattu Varalakshmi, Nam Duniya Nam Style and Baanadariyalli, his films have often revolved around relationships and everyday emotions. Now, after a hiatus, Preetham is ready to return to the director's chair with an untitled film, introducing a new young talent, Esha Lankesh.

Esha is the granddaughter of noted journalist and writer P Lankesh, and the daughter of filmmaker Kavitha Lankesh. Yet, for the young actor, the journey to her debut wasn't about waiting for an opportunity to arrive. "I've been learning acting and performance art for a while now. I never wanted someone to simply ask me to do a film," says Esha, adding, "I've been auditioning like everyone else, and luckily this project came along. I connected with the script, and that's why I chose it."

Interestingly, acting wasn't always the destination she imagined. "Growing up, I wasn't focused on being on screen. What fascinated me was the creative process. Since my mother is a filmmaker, I loved spending time around the art department. I still illustrate, and I've always enjoyed everything that happens behind the camera," says Esha, who has been training in performing arts at Ashoka Theatre in Delhi for the past four years. "I enjoy storytelling. Theatre gave me that space, and cinema feels like a natural extension of it. I'm excited about creating a character and seeing what I can express through her."

Fresh out of college and back in Bengaluru after completing her graduation a few weeks ago, Esha came across the casting call for Preetham Gubbi's film and decided to audition. "I sent in my audition, and Preetham sir reached out. When he narrated the script, it felt different from the kind of films I had been hearing about. That was what stayed with me."

Despite coming from a well-known film family, Esha says her mother has always encouraged independence rather than influence.
"I always check with Amma during auditions because her feedback is valuable. But she's never made decisions for me. She's always allowed me to find my own path. Everything I've learnt from watching her over the years is something I'll carry into my career."

Produced by Shivaraj Kanaganapalli under the Navisha Films banner, the untitled project is expected to go on floors in August. The makers have, for now, introduced only the film's leading lady, with the title, cast, and other details set to be unveiled in the coming weeks.