Mumbai, India – Director Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies has been making waves as India’s official entry for the Oscars 2025. At the India Today Mumbai Conclave, Rao shared valuable insights into her creative decisions, particularly the choice to cast fresh faces in the film.
Rao emphasized the importance of storytelling centered around women, stating, “Stories like these interest filmmakers like me because I feel that we need more films on women.” She highlighted the significance of investing in women storytellers, producers, actors, and projects led by women.
Laapataa Ladies tells the story of two brides exchanged at a railway station, set against the backdrop of rural India. Rao explained that the film’s unique appeal was shaped by deliberate creative choices. The decision to cast new talent, including Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, and Sparsh Shrivastava, made the story more grounded and relatable.
“We felt that keeping the story rooted and organic would make it far more believable and enjoyable,” Rao said. “With a completely fresh cast, people didn’t recognise the actors, allowing them to forget and fully immerse themselves in the world of the film. That worked in our favour.”Rao also discussed integrating everyday struggles women face into the narrative through humor. “I genuinely believe humour is one of the best ways to tackle some of the most uncomfortable issues,” she noted.
Produced by Aamir Khan, Laapataa Ladies has garnered attention for its authentic portrayal of women’s experiences. Rao’s thoughtful approach to storytelling and casting has contributed significantly to the film’s success.
As Laapataa Ladies moves forward in the Oscar race, Rao’s vision and creative decisions continue to resonate with audiences, solidifying her position as a pioneering female filmmaker in Indian cinema.
Must Read: Divya Khosla Teams Up with Paresh Rawal in Suresh Krissna’s “Hero Heeroine”
