In a significant development for Indian cinema, Kiran Rao’s directorial venture ‘Laapataa Ladies,’ produced in collaboration with Aamir Khan, has been chosen as India’s official entry for the 2025 Oscars. This announcement came from the Film Federation of India on Monday, sparking excitement and pride across the industry and among film enthusiasts. The Hindi film, a light-hearted yet poignant satire on patriarchy, triumphed over 29 other contenders, including popular Bollywood film ‘Animal’, Malayalam National Award winner ‘Aattam’, and Cannes winner ‘All We Imagine As Light.’
The selection committee, a 13-member panel led by the esteemed Assamese director Jahnu Barua, made a unanimous decision to pick ‘Laapataa Ladies’ for consideration in the Best International Film category at the prestigious Academy Awards. The journey to this selection was not an easy one, as the film had to contend with several acclaimed titles. Among the shortlisted were the Tamil film ‘Maharaja’, Telugu films ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ and ‘Hanu-Man’, as well as Hindi films ‘Swatantraya Veer Savarkar’ and ‘Article 370’. Worth noting, last year’s entry from India was the successful Malayalam film ‘2018: Everyone is a Hero.’
‘Laapataa Ladies’ is a delightful comedy centered around the misadventures of two young brides who find themselves separated from their husbands on the same train. The narrative unfolds in a humorous mix of mistaken identities and amusing escapades. Featuring a talented cast, which includes Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, and Ravi Kishan, the film brings to life a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The film’s journey has been remarkable. Released in theatres in March this year, it did not initially attract a large audience at the box office. However, its subsequent release on OTT platforms garnered significant appreciation from viewers, surpassing even the total viewership of Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s hit film ‘Animal.’ This turnaround highlights the film’s strong content and its resonance with a wider audience beyond the confines of cinema halls.
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Adding to its accolades, ‘Laapataa Ladies’ was screened at the Supreme Court of India a few weeks ago. The screening was attended by the families of judges and advocates, further cementing its status as a film of significance and wide appeal.
In a notable development for the film’s international outreach, ‘Laapataa Ladies’ is set for a release in Japan on October 4. Speaking about this milestone, Kiran Rao expressed her excitement, stating, “As an admirer of Japanese cinema, this feels like a full-circle moment. I’ve always had a deep interest in Japanese culture, and I hope the film’s emotional core will resonate with Japanese audiences just as it did with ours.” Rao emphasized how this release is a significant achievement, showcasing how cinema can bridge cultural gaps and connect people through shared narratives and emotions.
Regarding the film’s potential at the Oscars, Rao had pointed out to PTI, “My dream would be fulfilled if it was, if it would go to the Oscars. But it’s a process, and I’m hoping it’ll (Laapataa Ladies) be considered. I’m sure the best film will go, whoever they choose in the scheme of things.”
In conclusion, Kiran Rao’s ‘Laapataa Ladies’ has not only achieved the honor of being India’s official entry for the Oscars 2025 but also demonstrated the strength of Indian storytelling and cinematic excellence. As the film gears up for its international release and awaits further accolades, it stands as a testament to the vibrant and diverse narratives that Indian cinema continues to offer to the global audience. The journey of ‘Laapataa Ladies’ from theatres to OTT platforms, from Supreme Court screenings to international releases, reflects the universal appeal and the impact of well-crafted storytelling. The film’s selection for the Oscars is not just a personal triumph for Kiran Rao and Aamir Khan but a proud moment for Indian cinema at large.
