In a proud moment for Indian cinema, Kiran Rao's heartwarming film "Laapataa Ladies" has been chosen as India's official entry for the Oscars 2025 in the Best Foreign Language Film category. The Film Federation of India made the announcement on Monday in Chennai. This recognition is a testament to the tireless work of Rao's entire team, whose dedication and passion brought this empowering story to life.
"Laapataa Ladies" tells the story of two brides in rural India who accidentally get swapped during a train journey in 2001. The film features Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, and Sparsh Shrivastav in lead roles, alongside Ravi Kishan, Chhaya Kadam, and Geeta Aggarwal Sharma. Produced by Kindling Productions and Aamir Khan Productions, the film had its world premiere at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival and is currently streaming on Netflix.
The Film Federation of India's jury citation praised the film, saying, "Laapataa Ladies captures the diversity of Indian women perfectly… It shows that women can happily desire to be homemakers as well as rebel and be entrepreneurially inclined." The 13-member committee, chaired by Assamese filmmaker Jahnu Barua, recognized the film's ability to engage, entertain, and make sense to women universally.
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Jun 13, 2026Rao expressed her gratitude, saying, "I am deeply honored and delighted that our film Laapataa Ladies has been chosen as India's official entry to the Academy Awards… I hope that this film will resonate with audiences across the world, just as it has in India." With "Laapataa Ladies" representing India at the Oscars, the nation holds high hopes for a prestigious win.
As India cheers on "Laapataa Ladies," this satirical comedy-drama is poised to make a lasting impact on the global stage. Will Kiran Rao's masterpiece bring home the Oscar? Only time will tell, but for now, the entire nation is celebrating this remarkable achievement.
