Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra Jonas unveil India’s #TheBeyondType campaign

Nick Jonas, co-founder of Beyond Type 1, and board member Priyanka Chopra Jonas have launched the organisation’s first India campaign, titled #TheBeyondType. Jonas co-founded the non-profit ten years ago after being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) at age 13. The initiative aims to highlight lived experiences, challenge stigma and support grassroots groups working with communities across the country.

India has the highest number of young people living with T1D globally and the second highest number of people living with diabetes overall, yet awareness remains limited and stigma continues to affect diagnosis and care. #TheBeyondType showcases individuals thriving with T1D, presenting them as the determined, relentless and inspiring type, emphasising that the condition does not define them.

Chopra Jonas noted that stories of people living with T1D in India remain largely unheard, adding that her understanding deepened through her husband’s experience. She said the campaign shows that with access to appropriate care, diabetes does not limit potential. Jonas highlighted that stigma and limited awareness still create barriers, stating that the campaign aims to help improve access to the right tools, care and support.

Launched as a joint Instagram post from Chopra Jonas, Jonas and Beyond Type 1, the campaign reached a combined audience of 135 million. It features triathlete Lt Col Kumar Gaurav, karate champion Mehrin Rana, pastry chef Nishant Amin, toy designer and entrepreneur Shreya Jain, dancer and actor Indu Thampy, and vegetable vendor and marathon runner Harichandran Ponnusamy. Their stories reinforce that T1D does not prevent individuals from pursuing their goals.

The campaign also raises awareness about early signs such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, unusual fatigue and unexpected weight loss. Research published in PLOS Global Public Health indicates that many young people hide their diagnosis or delay injections due to judgement, with girls often encouraged to stay silent because of marriage concerns.

Beyond Type 1’s work in India aligns with the lived-experience approach of the campaign. The organisation supports HRIDAY in Delhi–NCR, Nityaasha Foundation in Pune, Gram Jyoti in Deoghar and SAMATVAM Trust in Bangalore to improve awareness, provide medical support and strengthen access to education and life skills. Director of social impact and global advocacy Seema Srivastava said partnerships with grassroots organisations help families recognise early signs and reduce shame and misinformation.