Telugu actress Isha Chawla studied theatre with Barry John in Mumbai, before returning to her native Delhi to work with Khushboo Society, a non-government organisation where she taught theatre to disabled kids.

Then the klieg lights beckoned, and her first Telugu film, Prema Kavali, with Aadi in the lead, released last January.

She has been signed by the same production house, Max India (of RR Movies), to act in her second Telugu film, Poolarangadu.

In this interview, Isha talks to Radhika Rajamani about Poolarangadu, which releases on February 18.

How did you get the role in Poolarangadu?

It's from the same banner as my first film, Prema Kavali. Poolarangadu is a comedy and I felt that I had to experience comedy because my first film was a drama. That, coupled with the banner of Max India of RR Movies, made me sign the film. 

What's your role in the film?

I play a rich village girl studying in college. She falls in love, and how she deals with this and her strict father is the main plot of the film. Pradeep Rawat and Pragati play my parents.

The most entertaining moments were when Ali, Raghubabu and Sunil came together. I was on the floor laughing. Sunil had a counter to everything and he would say it casually and then walk off, leaving us in splits.

How is Sunil as a co-star? Any learning lessons from him?

Experience counts. Fifty per cent of your performance depends on your co-star. Sunil is very involved. Because Telugu is not my language, he used to explain if I didn't get my shot right. He used to make me do variations. There's nothing to match his timing.

Are you more comfortable with the language since it's your second Telugu film?

My understanding is a bit better. I know some words. I try to speak to my staff in Telugu.

This is Veerabadhram's second film too. How was he as a director?

He's pretty easy going. He would explain the scene. He won't spoon feed you. He'll give you the space.

How would you describe the film and what can one look for in it?

It's a complete entertainer with drama and comedy. It's very colourful. The music is nice and melodious. Look out for Sunil's six-pack body. He has danced very well in the film.

Were you happy with the way your debut film Prema Kavali fared?

I was super happy as I didn't expect that much. When we went on the success tour, there were crowds everywhere which wanted to see me also. The response was amazing and it was a good feeling. The tour was extended by more than a week.

Did you always want to act?

I loved doing theatre. I am not from a film family. I never felt the need to get into movies. My family let me do what I want. They are encouraging.

There are so many young girls in the fray in the acting field. How do you view the competition?

I don't think there's competition. One shouldn't feel one's film is doing well. One should appreciate good cinema. The competition is within me.

What are your future projects?

I will be doing the Telugu remake of Tanu Weds Manu and I'm working on a Kannada film with Darshan titled Viraat.