Priyanka Chopra Jonas has spoken about her new film, The Cycle of Love, which explores romance against the backdrop of caste inequality.
Chopra Jonas, who serves as executive producer on the project, discussed why she felt the story deserved to be told.
She indicated that she had been drawn to the film's blend of personal emotion and wider social themes.
“Love stories have a way of opening doors to difficult conversations that a lecture never could.”
Caste discrimination is outlawed under India's constitution, but campaigners say prejudice continues to shape access to education, jobs and marriage. Activists say legal protections have not always translated into change on the ground.
Inter-caste relationships can still face opposition from families and communities in parts of the country.
Films tackling caste have become more prominent in recent years, with a number of directors bringing the issue to wider audiences.
Caste-themed stories have historically been underrepresented in mainstream Indian cinema, critics say, but streaming platforms and independent filmmakers have helped create space for more varied voices. Several such films have attracted attention at international festivals in recent years.
Chopra Jonas has built a career spanning Bollywood and Hollywood, and has increasingly taken on producing roles to support new voices.
Industry observers say the involvement of high-profile producers can help such films reach international audiences and festival programmes.
Details of the film's release plans have not yet been fully confirmed. Observers expect the film to screen at festivals before any wider release.
