JOIN USKodagu is known for its distinct culture. While the Kodava men are considered brave, the women are known for their beauty.
Hailing from one of the quaint and distinct towns of Kodagu is actress Harshika Poonacha who has made a name for herself in the Sandalwood industry.
An engineer by qualification, she has a number of successful Kannada and Telugu films to her credit.
She is presently working in three Kannada projects and has completed shooting for her soon-to-be-released Telugu film ‘Appudala Ippudila’.
Excited about all her upcoming projects, the actress talks about her experience of shooting for the untitled Kannada film directed by veteran Sunil Kumar Desai.
“This is one of my dream projects as I am working with some of the most experienced people in the industry,” she says.
“It is more of a learning experience. It feels like I am back in school as I am getting to learn a great deal about acting — from emoting to dialogue delivery,” says Harshika.
She is cast opposite Ramesh Aravind in the movie, that also sees an appearance by veteran actor Ananth Nag.
The overwhelmed actress adds, “There is a sense of satisfaction on the sets while shooting. This is the comeback movie of Sunil sir. He is one of the best directors and has given a break to many actors in the industry. It is a wonderful team and it is definitely rewarding to work with such talented people.”
The actress feels that this movie will always be special to her.
She says, “Most of the times, it is me who gives acting tips to others while shooting. But in this movie, I felt like a newcomer learning lessons from all the skilled actors.”
Harshika has completed the shoot for her Telugu film ‘Appudala Ippudila’, which is a romantic comedy. She plays an introverted rich girl who has many secrets.
“The movie is cute and funny. Veteran actor Naresh sir, who was a superstar in the 80s, plays my father in the film. It is very comical and it is my father who helps the hero get close to me,” she says.
“I am known to be very talkative. But my role in the movie is a little different from who I am. In the movie, I am the girl-next-door who is simple and keeps a lot of secrets,” she adds.
She has also signed two Kannada movies and is waiting to finalise her dates.
“I will be working again with the ‘B3’ movie crew for another movie. I am yet to finalise the dates as I am busy with the reality show — ‘Dancing Star 2’,” she explains.
Having acted in Tulu, Kodava and Konkani movies too, she says, “I can speak in all South Indian languages and hence, language has never been a barrier for me,” she says.
Ask her about the reality behind the screens and she explains that the industry
is not just about glamour as they go through a lot of mental and physical stress.
She however sums up, “I always see the best part and I love my profession. Being
an actress is an amazing feeling and you are treated like a princess, which I love.”