The Cycle of Love

In 1975, street artist PK has a chance encounter with Swedish tourist Lotta in Delhi. He instantly falls for her, believing that she’s the person foretold to be his true love. The pair spend the next couple of days together, but when Lotta doesn’t return to India as promised, PK decides to go to her. With barely any supplies, he sets out on the 6,000-mile journey across Asia and Europe on a second-hand bicycle. Orlando von Einsiedel chronicles this extraordinary love story in documentary The Cycle of Love, weaving an uplifting tale about the human spirit.

While PK shares several of his travel stories, the film is more about his spiritual journey than his physical one. Growing up as a Dalit in a small village, travelling becomes a means for him to escape the prejudice he’s faced throughout his life. Whether he’s getting to know the strangers he draws to earn some money or conversing with fellow travellers about life and philosophy, this documentary is ultimately a testament to humanity’s compassion and a reminder that people are fundamentally good.

Lotta also tells her side of the story, explaining that she’s always wanted to visit India. The memories the characters share are shown in flashback, with Chirag Lobo and Mina Dale playing younger versions of PK and Lotta respectively. Presented as grainy footage and incorporating archive photographs, these sequences feel authentic to the era, as if viewers were watching real footage. Lobo and Dale’s performances are likewise spectacular. Their chemistry is instant and genuine, ensuring that the audience will be rooting for a happy ending.

Although the movie is quick to explain the reasons behind why Lotta never returned, von Einsiedel leaves just enough mystery to wonder what became of their relationship. Juggling the film’s numerous themes alongside stalls in PK’s plans causes the pacing to drag slightly around the halfway point. Once his journey regains its momentum, the feature finds its footing to end on a delightful high.

The Cycle of Love chronicles an unbelievable story of love and fate. As captivating as this real-world romance is, the true joy of this documentary lies in the filmmaker’s ability to uncover the remarkable kindness, resilience and hope that spurred PK halfway around the world.

Andrew Murray

The Cycle of Love is released nationwide on 18^th September 2026.

Watch the trailer for The Cycle of Love here: