India’s comedy drama movie Laapataa Ladies (Lost Ladies), directed by Kiran Rao, has been chosen to represent the nation in the Best International Feature category of the Oscar 2025.
The Malayalam National Award winner Aattam, the Cannes winner All We Imagine As Light, and the Ranbir Kapoor-starring Animal were among the 29 films that were shortlisted for consideration. The Hindi film is a lighthearted parody on patriarchy. All We Imagine As Light was widely anticipated to be India’s official Oscar submission.
Following a wildly positive reception at Cannes, where it won the Grand Jury prize, Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine As Light was deemed the clear favorite for the Oscar slot. However, the Hindi-language picture, which made its premiere at the Toronto International picture Festival last year, defeated the front-runner.
However, Rao’s feature has shown to be a hit at festivals. The light satire follows Jaya (Pratibha Ranta) and Phool (Nitanshi Goel): Two new brides, whose faces are concealed by similar crimson bridal veils, both going on the same Indian cross-country rail car to their weddings, who get accidentally exchanged and land at the incorrect wedding, putting them on drastically divergent destinies.
After the movie opened in theaters locally, it debuted on Netflix India. Yash Raj Films acquired the film’s international distribution rights.
How many Indian films were selected for Oscar award before this?
Indian cinema has not fared well in the Oscar sweepstakes, despite the nation’s long and rich history in the film industry. Only three Indian films—Mother India (1957), Salaam Bombay! (1988) directed by Mira Nair, and Lagaan (2001) helmed by Ashutosh Gowariker—have been nominated for a Best International Feature, all of which were released decades apart.
The Telugu-language action-adventure epic RRR, directed by S.S. Rajamouli and available on Netflix, made Indian history last year when it won the Oscar for Best Original Song. However, it was not nominated for Best International Feature.
When Will the Oscar 2025 Commence?
The 96th Academy Awards submission date is November 14. On December 17, the best international feature contenders’ shortlist will be revealed. The deadline for nominations is January 17, 2025. On Sunday, March 2, the 2025 Academy Awards will take place.
Kiran Rao’s shared a post in Instagram for the selection of Laapataa Ladies for Oscar 2025
Director and Producer Kiran Rao later shared a note on Instagram, expressing her gratitude, “I am deeply honoured and beyond 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 (sic).”
Aamir Khan Said “I am so proud of Kiran” on the selection of Laapataa Ladies for Oscar 2025
Aamir Khan declared in a statement, “The news has us all delighted. Kiran and her whole crew have my utmost admiration. I would like to congratulate the selection committee of the Film Federation of India, which chose our film to represent India at the Oscars,” reported news outlet ANI.
— Aamir Khan Productions (@AKPPL_Official) September 23, 2024
The comedy Laapataa Ladies makes social commentary while addressing issues of identity and women’s responsibilities in traditional India. In the movie, two recently married women go missing on a train, sparking an entertaining and crazy hunt for them.
Also Read : Laapataa Ladies Movie : Know Star Cast, Review and Read Full Story of Movie in Details