Laapataa Ladies, directed by Kiran Rao, has been selected as India’s official entry for the 2025 oscar Academy Awards. This satirical film, which critiques patriarchy, was chosen from a pool of 29 films by a committee of experts.
The Film Federation of India made the announcement on Monday, revealing that Laapataa Ladies will represent the country in the Best International Film category. Produced by Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao, the film stars Nitanshi Goel, who delivers a captivating performance as the innocent Phool.
Competing Films for the Oscars Entry
Among the 29 films considered, the selection included high-profile contenders like the Bollywood blockbuster Animal, Malayalam National Award-winner Aattam, and the Cannes-acclaimed All We Imagine As Light. The 13-member committee, led by renowned Assamese director Jahnu Barua, unanimously chose Laapataa Ladies to represent India at the Oscars.
Other notable films in contention were the Tamil film Maharaja, Telugu titles Kalki 2898 AD and Hanu-Man, along with the Hindi films Swatantraya Veer Savarkar and Article 370. Last year, the Malayalam superhit 2018: Everyone is a Hero was submitted as India's entry.
Kiran Rao's Oscar Aspirations for Laapataa Ladies
In a recent statement, Kiran Rao expressed her optimism about the selection process. “My dream would be fulfilled if Laapataa Ladies makes it to the Oscars, but it’s all part of a process,” she shared with PTI. She added that she trusts the Film Federation of India to pick the best film for the prestigious honor.
Earlier this year, during a press screening, Kiran Rao emphasized that the most meaningful recognition for her comes from the audience’s response. “If viewers and the nation appreciate our work, that would be the greatest accolade for us,” she remarked.
