Mumbai, Aug 17 (IANS): The teaser of the upcoming film 'Siya' was unveiled on Wednesday. The film, which marks the directorial debut of producer Manish Mundra, is a human story from the Indian heartland that aims to spark conversation and debate on how society treats its women and the oppressive social systems.

The teaser gives the audiences a sense of the brutality and despair countless victims of violence and rape endure. It also throws light on the shocking indifference with which the subject of rape continues to be treated in the country. It also reminds the viewer of the Hathras 2020 gangrape and murder case where a Dalit woman was raped by upper caste men in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh.

Commenting on the occasion, director Manish Mundra, who has earlier produced films like 'Ankhon Dekhi', 'Masaan', and 'Newton', said in a statement: "'Siya' isn't just a film but a movement. It's a voice that will resonate with victims who've endured unimaginable emotional, physical and mental pain. While the film is based out of the heartland of India, much like most of our films, it speaks to a global audience."

Produced by Drishyam Films, the makers of Masaan and Newton, the film tells the tale of a small-town girl who despite all hurdles, decides to take down oppressive patriarchy and fight for justice. The film stars Pooja Pandey and Vineet Kumar Singh, and is set to release in India on September 16.