Laapataa Ladies gets selected as India’s official entry to The Oscars

By Jyothi Venkatesh

On September 23, the Film Federation of India made the announcement that the light-hearted satire on patriarchy Laapa Ladies has been chosen from a list of 29 films, including hits Animal and the Malayalam National Award winner Aattam and Cannes winner All We Imagine As Light, this year.

Laapataa Ladies- directed by Kiran Rao- is now officially nominated for Oscars 2025. The cast of this film which released in theaters on March 1 this year includes Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, Ravi Kisan, Chhaya Kadam etc. The movie is set in rural India and follows the journey of two brides, Phool and Jaya, who accidentally swap places on a train. Produced by Aamir Khan Productions and Kindling Productions, Laapataa Ladies marked Kiran Rao’s directorial return after Dhobi Ghat. Laapataa Ladies is the third film from Aamir’s home banner after Lagaan ( 2001) and Taare Zameen Par (2007) that has been selected as India’s official entry for Oscars.

On her film being selected for the nomination in Oscars, Kiran Rao said, “ I thank my former husband and actor Aamir Khan for backing the project and supporting us throughout. I am deeply honored and delighted that our film Laapataa Ladies has been chosen as India’s official entry to the Academy Awards. This recognition is a testament to the tireless work of my entire team, whose dedication and passion brought this story to life. Cinema has always been a powerful medium to connect hearts, transcend boundaries, and ignite meaningful conversations. I hope that this film will resonate with audiences across the world, just as it has in India.”

Aamir Khan expresses his happiness on Laaapataa Ladies being selected as India’s official entry for the 97th Academy Awards. Following posts by Kiran Rao, Nitanshi Goel, and the cast of the social comedy-drama on social media, Aamir also shared his official statement. The actor-producer expressed gratitude to everyone for their recognition and support for the film.

Reacting to Laapataa Ladies being chosen, Aamir’s statement reads, “We are all so happy with the news. I am so proud of Kiran and her entire team. I would like to thank the selection committee of the Film Federation of India, which chose our film to represent India at the Oscars. My heartfelt gratitude to our audience, our media, and the entire film fraternity, for all the love and support they have given Laapata Ladies. Thanks to both Jio and Netflix who have been great partners to work with. I am so happy that all our hard-work has paid off. Thank you everyone (folded hands emoji) Here’s hoping that Laapata Ladies is able to win the hearts of the members of the Academy. Love.”