Dhanya Balakrishna, who makes her Kannada debut with Sarvajanikarige Suvarnavakaasha opposite Rishi, has just signed her second Kannada film. And this time, it's with her mentor and guru, director Giriraj BM. The film, Suragi, produced by Bhavana under HomeTown productions, will star Dhanya in the titular role. Manu Gowda will feature as the other lead and Dhanya’s love interest.

While Giriraj and Dhanya have earlier collaborated on the webseries, Rakthachandana, this is the first time the duo is coming together for a feature film. “I have known Giriraj for the last eight years. He trained me in theatre while I was in college, and there was no way I could refuse an offer by him,” says Dhanya, whose film is touted to be a 'pure love story'.

The actor wants to be recognised for her roles in Kannada. “I’m inspired by actors such as Nayanthara or Kangana Ranaut, who carry their films on their shoulders. Playing a titutlar role in Suragi is a big responsibility, and I am looking forward to it,” says Dhanya about the film that is slated to go on floors sometime after January 15.