India’s Oscar 2025 Entry: Kiran Rao’s ‘LAAPATAA LADIES’

Kiran Rao's 'LAAPATAA LADIES'

On Monday, September 23, The Film Federation Of India (FFI) selected “Laapataa Ladies” by Kiran Rao as India’s official entry for the 2025 Academy Awards ‘Best International Feature Film category.

Kiran Rao’s acclaimed film, Laapataa Ladies, has been chosen to represent India at the 2025 Oscars. The announcement was made on Monday, September 23, by the Film Federation Of India (FFI), the organisation responsive for selection India’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category.

Laapataa Ladies directed by Kiran Rao’s released in theaters in March. The film is second directorial effort following the critically acclaimed Dhobi Ghat (2011). The film stars Sparsh Srivastava along side with Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Chhaya Kadam and Ravi Kishan.

In its citation, the FFI jury stated, “Indian Women posses a unique blend of submission and assertiveness. Laapataa Ladies (Hindi) beautifully captures this duality through its well defined, powerful female character, set in a semi-utopian world with a touch of humor. The film showcases the diversity of women’s aspiration, demonstrating their ability to balance traditional roles with rebelious and entrepreneurial spirit. It serves as a thought-provoking narrative that highlights the need for societal change while also offering a potential solution. Lapataa Ladies is a film that resonates with women worldwide, engaging, entertaining and providing valuable insights. The 13-member committee was chaired by Assamese film maker Jahnu Barua.

This film (Laapataa Ladies), produced by Jio Studios, Aamir Khan Productions and Kindling Pictures. This film had its global debut at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival. It was subsequently released in Indian theaters in March of this year and is now available for streaming on Netflix.

In a statement, Kiran Rao expressed her gratitude and excitement saying, I am deeply honored that our film, Laapataa Ladies, has been selected as India’s official representative at the Academy Awards. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of my entire team, who poured their hearts and souls into bringing this story to life. Cinema has always been a powerful tool for connecting people, transcending cultural barriers, and sparking meaningful conversations. I hope that this film resonate with audiences around the world, just as it has in India.

A total of 29 films, including Payal Kapadia’s Cannes winning ‘ALL WE IMAGINE AS LIGHT’ and the acclaimed Malayalam drama ‘AATTAM’, were considered for India’s last nomination for Best International Feature at the Academy Awards was for ‘LAGAAN’ (2001). The 97th Academy Awards are scheduled to take place in 2025 in Hollywood, Los Angeles, United States.

Exit mobile version