Tue Sep 24 07:11:32 UTC 2024: ## Kiran Rao’s “Laapataa Ladies” Chosen as India’s Oscar Entry for 2025

**MUMBAI, INDIA** – Kiran Rao’s “Laapataa Ladies”, a Hindi comedy exploring patriarchy, has been selected as India’s official entry for the Best International Film category at the 2025 Academy Awards. The announcement was made on September 23rd by the Film Federation of India.

The film was chosen from a diverse pool of 29 entries, including “Animal,” the Malayalam National Award-winning “Aattam,” and Cannes winner “All We Imagine As Light.” A 13-member committee, headed by Assamese director Jahnu Barua, unanimously decided on “Laapataa Ladies.”

“I am very happy,” expressed Director Kiran Rao. “I was not expecting an Oscar entry as many good films have been made this year. Now we will have a chance to show this film to a much larger audience.” Rao expressed her gratitude to the audience for their love for the film, highlighting its appeal to a wide range of viewers.

“Laapataa Ladies” stars Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, Ravi Kishan, and Chhaya Kadam. Actress Pratibha Ranta shared her excitement, stating, “I love this feeling…we were not expecting it but we were definitely hoping for something of that sort to happen.”

The film, currently streaming on Netflix, has been lauded since its release on April 26th. Social media has been buzzing with praise for the film’s humor, its social commentary, and its engaging storyline.

“Laapataa Ladies” marks India’s bid for a second Oscar win in the Best International Film category after “Slumdog Millionaire” in 2009. The film’s selection signifies a continued push for Indian cinema to gain international recognition and reach a wider global audience.

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