Tue Sep 24 18:47:10 UTC 2024: ## Kiran Rao’s “Laapataa Ladies” is India’s Official Entry for the Oscars

**Chennai, India:** Kiran Rao’s directorial debut, “Laapataa Ladies,” has been chosen as India’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards. The film, which follows two newlywed women who switch places during a train journey, garnered critical and commercial success upon its release in March.

The Film Federation of India (FFI), the body responsible for selecting India’s Oscar entry, announced the decision on Monday. “Laapataa Ladies” beat out 28 other films, including Cannes winner “All We Imagine As Light” and National Award-winning “Aattam.”

Rao, known for her work with husband Aamir Khan’s production house, expressed her gratitude to the selection committee and her supporters on social media. However, the FFI’s selection process has come under fire, with critics highlighting the jury’s all-male composition and a controversial citation for “Laapataa Ladies.”

The FFI’s selection process involves a 13-member jury composed of “senior qualified people” from the film industry. This year, the jury was entirely male, prompting accusations of a lack of inclusivity and transparency.

The FFI’s citation for “Laapataa Ladies,” which described Indian women as “a strange mixture of submission and dominance,” further fueled criticism. Some viewers argued that the language was outdated and insensitive.

Despite the controversy, “Laapataa Ladies” will now compete against other international films for the coveted Oscar. This marks the fourth time an Indian film has been nominated for the award, with previous nominees including “Mother India,” “Salaam Bombay!,” and “Lagaan.”

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