Laapataa Ladies, Kiran Rao’s Light-Hearted Satire, Chosen as India’s Official Entry for Oscars 2025
In a significant development in the Indian film industry, Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies has been selected as India’s official entry for the prestigious Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars, in 2025. The Film Federation of India (FFI) announced the decision on Monday.
The Hindi film, which has received universal praise from critics, was chosen from a list of 29 contenders by a 13-member committee headed by Assamese director Jahnu Barua. Laapataa Ladies is a heartwarming and empowering take on two brides in rural India in 2001 who accidentally get swapped during a train journey.
Produced by Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao’s Kindling Productions, the film features Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, and Sparsh Shrivastav in lead roles, alongside Ravi Kishan, Chhaya Kadam, and Geeta Aggarwal Sharma.
Other notable films that were in the running for selection included Bollywood hit Animal, Malayalam National Award winner Aattam, Cannes winner All We Imagine As Light, Tamil film Maharaja, Telugu titles Kalki 2898 AD and Hanu-Man, and Hindi films Swatantraya Veer Savarkar and Article 370.
Kiran Rao had earlier expressed her desire to see Laapataa Ladies reach the Oscars, stating that her “dream would be fulfilled” if the film was selected. The film’s selection is a testament to its impactful storytelling and the committee’s recognition of its cinematic excellence.
Laapataa Ladies will now compete in the Best International Film category at the Academy Awards. The film’s selection has generated significant excitement in the Indian film industry, with many congratulating Kiran Rao and the cast on this achievement.
As India’s official entry, Laapataa Ladies has brought attention to the country’s thriving film industry and its ability to produce content that resonates globally. The film’s Oscar dreams have sparked hope among Indian cinephiles, who eagerly await the Academy Awards ceremony.
With Laapataa Ladies, Kiran Rao has once again demonstrated her prowess as a filmmaker, tackling complex social issues with sensitivity and humor. As the film vies for international recognition, it remains to be seen how it will fare against other exceptional films from around the world.
The 2025 Academy Awards are slated to take place in March, and the Indian film industry will be watching with bated breath as Laapataa Ladies competes for the coveted honor.
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