Sandalwood gets a fresh talent pool in 2015

If 2014 saw new filmmakers make headlines, 2015 saw a new pool of young actors enter the film industry, with ample promise and potential in both big budget and smaller films. While the year began with the launch of the third generation of Sandalwood’s first family, Vinay Rajkumar, the year also saw fans support and encourage many new non-industry talent.Here’s our pick of 10 fresh faces of 2015...
Nirup Bhandari
Film: RangiTaranga
His performance in the surprise hit of 2015 had people lauding this software professional-turned-actor. He is slated to collaborate again with his brother Anup for his next film.
Mayuri
Film: Krishna Leela
Television’s Ashwini made an impressive debut in the Krishna Ajai Rao-starrer, where fans loved her role. She has since signed Nagathihalli Chandrashekhar's upcoming project Ishtakamya.
Chandan
Films: Katte, Eradondla Mooru, Luv U Alia, Bengaluru 560023
Another TV to film import, he had many releases this year, which had him noticed. He has since entered the Bigg Boss Kannada house as a strong star contender.
Nabha Natesh
Film: Vajrakaaya
In a completely testosterone-driven Vajrakaaya, this youngster managed to hold her ground and also entertain the fans in her scenes that also featured Shivarajkumar.
Sangeita Chauhaan
Films: Luv U Alia, Sharp Shooter
This Mumbai-based heroine had two films, both much-talked-about, where her performances were lauded by fans and critics alike.
Koustubh Jay Kumar
Film: The Plan An engineer-turned-actor, this newcomer again chose an atypical debut. It was an ensemble cast, with Anant Nag as the protagonist. Yet, his character, with shades of grey, stood out.
Apoorva Gowda
Film: First Rank Raju
She played a bubbly young college girl in this film filled with youngsters and her cutesy portrayal has college-goers identifying with her act.
Gurunandan
Film: First Rank Raju
While he made his debut a few years ago in Cyber Yugadol Nava Yuva Madhura Prema Kavyam, his second innings has ensured he has a hit and a fan following for his performance as Raju.
Manvitha Harish
Film: Kendasampige
It wasn’t the regular heroine role that this youngster made her debut with, yet her portrayal of the ambitious yet vulnerable teenager in love has everyone applauding her.
Radhika Chetan
Film: RangiTaranga
A theatreperson, she made her debut in this year’s most-talked-about film and has since landed a role in U-Turn, which is being helmed by Pawan Kumar of Lucia fame.