Director-producer-screenwriter Kiran Rao achieved a groundbreaking milestone on Friday, as her film ‘Laapataa Ladies’ was screened at the Supreme Court of India. This screening is part of the activities commemorating the 75th year of the establishment of India’s apex court. Speaking to reporters prior to the screening, Kiran Rao expressed her immense pride and gratitude for this unique honour bestowed upon her film.
“Ahead of the screening, I was filled with immense pride to see ‘Laapataa Ladies’ making history by being screened at the Supreme Court of India. I am deeply grateful to the honourable Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud for this rare honour,” Rao stated.
Rao elaborated on the film’s intent and reception, “From the beginning, we had hoped that the story of Phool and Jaya would resonate deeply. The outpouring of love from audiences has been nothing short of extraordinary, far exceeding our expectations. Thank you all for giving our film such love and support,” as per a statement shared by Kiran Rao’s team.
The screening, held in the auditorium of the apex court’s administrative building complex, was part of gender sensitisation training for the Court’s staff members. Distinguished attendees included Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, his spouse Kalpana Das, other Supreme Court judges along with their spouses, and actor Aamir Khan, who co-produced the film.
Ahead of the screening, Kiran Rao was seen departing from Court No. 1 of the Supreme Court after attending an unspecified hearing. Aamir Khan, another notable attendee, was welcomed warmly by Chief Justice Chandrachud. “I don’t want a stampede in the court, but we welcome Mr Aamir Khan who is here for the screening of the film,” said the Chief Justice to the assembled court audience.
Khan, who sat in the front row, observed the court proceedings for about 30 minutes prior to the screening.
. His presence added an additional layer of glitz and glamour to the event, reinforcing the film industry’s contribution to meaningful social dialogues.
‘Laapataa Ladies,’ which debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 2023, has been celebrated for its compelling narrative centred on gender equality. The film stars Ravi Kishan, Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ratna, and Sparsh Shrivastav in pivotal roles, and it earned a standing ovation at TIFF, further validating its critical acclaim.
“As part of the activities organized during the seventy-fifth year of the establishment of the Supreme Court of India, the movie ‘Laapataa Ladies’, which is based on the theme of gender equality, will be screened on Friday, August 9, 2024, in the Auditorium, C-Block, Administrative Building Complex. Kiran Rao, who has directed the movie, and Aamir Khan, the producer, will also be present during the screening,” read an official circular from the Court.
This landmark event, highlighting the integration of socially relevant cinema with judicial initiatives, aims to foster a more informed and sensitised judiciary and staff. The collaboration between the Supreme Court and the film industry underscores the importance of addressing critical societal issues through multiple platforms, including art and cinema.
The film’s strong message of gender equality is resonant with the broader mission of judicial sensitivity and inclusivity. ‘Laapataa Ladies’ serves as both a cultural artifact and a conversation starter, engaging individuals from diverse spheres in a dialogue about gender norms and the need for societal change.
As the nation commemorates the 75th year of its highest judicial body, this screening stands as a testament to the evolving landscape where legal observances and cultural narratives converge. Kiran Rao’s contribution to this significant occasion not only exemplifies cinematic excellence but also embodies a greater push towards gender justice.
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In conclusion, Friday’s event marks a remarkable stride in India’s cinematic and judicial history. It encapsulates the power of storytelling in driving societal change and sets a precedent for future collaborations between the judiciary and the arts. Kiran Rao’s ‘Laapataa Ladies’ thus not only entertains but also educates and inspires, fostering a legacy of equality and sensitivity within the nation’s highest court.
