Isha Koppikar is an Indian actress and model who has appeared in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Marathi films. Isha is best known for playing protagonists in films that garner more critical appreciation than substantial box office figures. Her most critically acclaimed performances were in the films Girlfriend (2004), D (2006), Darling (2007) and Shabri (2011). She has also played leading and supporting roles in several commercially successful films, including Qayamat: City Under Threat (2003), Kyaa Kool Hai Hum (2005), Maine Pyaar Kyun Kiya? (2005), 36 China Town (2006) and Don: The Chase Begins Again (2006), as well as item numbers in several filmsThe 1997 Hindi film Ek Tha Dil Ek Thi Dhadhkan, directed by Shahrukh Sultan, is often stated to be Koppikar's first film, but there is no evidence the project was ever released.[3] Her career must therefore be said to have begun with the 1998 Telugu film Chandralekha, co-starring alongside Nagarjuna, and directed by Krishna Vamsi, with music by Maestro Sandeep Chowta. She was awarded the Filmfare Best Female Debut Award.