Mon Sep 23 14:11:12 UTC 2024: ## “Laapataa Ladies” Chosen as India’s Oscar Entry for 2025
**Mumbai, September 23, 2024:** Kiran Rao’s satirical comedy-drama “Laapataa Ladies” has been selected as India’s official submission to the 97th Academy Awards, slated for 2025 in Hollywood. The Film Federation of India (FFI) announced the decision on Monday, selecting the film from a pool of 29 contenders.
“Laapataa Ladies,” released in March, tells the story of a man whose bride gets accidentally swapped. The film, Rao’s second directorial effort after the acclaimed “Dhobi Ghat,” features Sparsh Shrivastava, Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Chhaya Kadam and Ravi Kishan. It’s based on Biplab Goswami’s award-winning screenplay, “Two Brides.”
The FFI jury, led by filmmaker Jahnu Barua, lauded the film for its portrayal of Indian women, stating that “Laapataa Ladies…captures this diversity perfectly, though in a semi-idyllic world and in a tongue-and-cheek way.” The jury believes the film can resonate with audiences globally and spark conversations about gender roles and societal change.
“I am deeply honored and delighted,” said Kiran Rao in a statement, acknowledging the work of her entire team. “I hope that this film will resonate with audiences across the world, just as it has in India.”
India’s last nomination for Best International Feature at the Oscars was for “Lagaan” in 2001. “Laapataa Ladies,” produced by Jio Studios, Aamir Khan Productions, and Kindling Pictures, had its world premiere at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival and is currently streaming on Netflix.
First Piper 