Born in Bracknell, Berkshire to Indian parents, Rishi grew up in Walkergate, Newcastle upon Tyne where she attended Walkergate Primary and Junior School and Benfield School. She then undertook a Business degree at the University of Bradford in 1998. After graduation she began working as a computer programmer, including for British Airways in Newcastle Business Park. During her spare time she discovered a passion for acting in Amateur Dramatics, and then choosing to change professions took a postgraduate course at the Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts.