On September 23, the Film Federation of India (FFI) announced that Kiran Rao’s film Laapataa Ladies has been selected as India’s official submission for the 2025 Academy Awards. This marks a major milestone for Rao, whose second directorial effort follows her acclaimed debut with Dhobi Ghat in 2011.
Released in March, Laapataa Ladies is a satirical comedy-drama that tells the story of a young man whose bride is accidentally swapped with another. The film, based on Biplab Goswami’s award-winning screenplay Two Brides, stars Sparsh Shrivastava, Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Chhaya Kadam, and Ravi Kishan.
The FFI jury, chaired by renowned Assamese filmmaker Jahnu Barua, praised the film for its portrayal of Indian women and its universal appeal. “Laapataa Ladies engages, entertains, and resonates not just with women in India but universally,” read the jury’s citation.
Produced by Jio Studios, Aamir Khan Productions, and Kindling Pictures, the film had its world premiere at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival and is currently available for streaming on Netflix.
Expressing his excitement, actor Ravi Kishan called Laapataa Ladies a film that “represents the real India.” He added, “I am so excited and happy. I just got the news and have been constantly getting calls. I am sure about its win at the Oscars.”
Kiran Rao, overwhelmed by the selection, expressed her gratitude: “I am deeply honoured and delighted that our film has been chosen. This recognition is a testament to my team’s dedication.”
India last secured an Oscar nomination with Lagaan in 2001. The 97th Academy Awards will be held in 2025 in Hollywood, Los Angeles.
