From arranged expectations to open love: Kiran Rao’s view

Rao reflected on the shift from viewing marriage as the sole bond to recognizing deep emotional and even physical connections that can exist before a wedding. She noted that contemporary couples often develop strong ties that are not dependent on legal or ceremonial validation. By placing her characters in a world where such ties are normal, Rao aims to capture the vibrant, liberated spirit of today’s generation, portraying love as a personal journey rather than a societal obligation.