The Film Federation of India has chosen Kiran Rao's 'Laapataa Ladies' as India's official entry for the 97th Academy Awards in 2025.
'Laapataa Ladies' has been selected as India’s official entry for the 2025 Oscars. Directed by Kiran Rao and co-produced by Aamir Khan, the film was released earlier this year and garnered positive reviews. Its cast features Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, Chhaya Kadam, and Ravi Kishan. This nomination comes shortly after Kiran Rao expressed her goal of attending the Oscars. The film was chosen by a selection committee led by Jahnu Barua from a pool of 29 contenders, including 'Animal' and 'Aattam.'
India's first Oscar
India's first Oscar win came in 2009 when 'Slumdog Millionaire', directed by Danny Boyle, won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Although it was a British film, it featured a predominantly Indian cast and was shot in India. The film won a total of eight Oscars, including Best Director for Boyle, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Original Score.
Kiran Rao's film
'Laapataa Ladies' follows two young newlywed women who reaffirm their vows during a train trip to their husbands' homes. The film premiered at the 48th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 8, 2023, and was released in theaters on March 1, 2024.
Critics have highlighted the film’s engaging story, thoughtful writing, and strong performances by the cast, noting how it captures the essence of its setting while weaving in humor and emotion. The film's ability to blend heartfelt moments with a lighthearted narrative has struck a chord, making it a memorable cinematic experience.
Trailer
This is Kiran Rao's second directorial project, following her debut with 'Dhobi Ghat' in 2010. Aamir Khan, the film's co-producer, discovered Biplab Goswami's story 'Two Brides' at a scriptwriting competition. Filming took place on location in Madhya Pradesh's Sehore district, specifically in the villages of Bamuliya and Dhamankheda. Local villagers were cast in supporting roles, and the film was shot in actual homes within the community.
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