Filmmaker Kiran Rao often portrays evolving societal norms and relationships in her films. Her narratives capture the changing mindset and independence of today’s youth.
During the promotion of “Lust Stories 3,” Rao openly discussed the romantic relationships of young people today. She noted a significant shift in how her generation and the current youth perceive relationships.
When asked about the seemingly carefree attitude of young characters in her stories, Rao provided insight from both a director’s and a personal perspective. “I don’t see today’s youth as indifferent; rather, they exhibit a sense of freedom and an ability to express their emotions without hesitation,” she explained.
Rao contrasted this with her own generation, where there was an expectation to maintain specific types of relationships. “The world has changed, and so have people’s views on relationships. Today’s young generation is more open to expressing themselves and choosing their own relationships,” she added.
She highlighted that today’s youth enjoy a form of freedom regarding their emotions and desires, which they express more openly than before. This transformation is a central theme in her storytelling. Her narrative includes two young characters who are not bound by traditional relationships but are attracted to each other. This leads to questions about their future and the outcomes of their choices.
Reflecting on her own experiences, Rao recalled that in her time, physical and emotional connections between spouses were considered normal only after marriage. “But that’s not the case anymore. People today can have deep and meaningful relationships before marriage, which may include both emotional and physical connections,” she noted.
Rao emphasized that this shift distinguishes today’s world from her generation. “I set my story against this changing backdrop. I wanted to showcase the freshness, freedom, and open-mindedness of the new generation regarding relationships. For me, it’s not just a romantic tale; it’s a reflection of an era where today’s youth live their relationships and preferences more openly.”