Laapataa Ladies, directed by Kiran Rao and co-produced by Aamir Khan, has been selected as India’s official entry for the 97th Academy Awards in 2025. Released earlier this year, the film has been praised by audiences and critics alike. The cast includes Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, Chhaya Kadam, and Ravi Kishan.
The Film Federation of India, after convening in Chennai, announced Laapataa Ladies as the country’s entry for the Best Foreign Film category at the Oscars. This announcement came shortly after Kiran Rao expressed her hope that the film would make it to the Oscars. In a recent interview with PTI, she shared, “My dream would be fulfilled if it goes to the Oscars. I’m hoping it’ll be considered.”
Set in 2001, Laapataa Ladies transports viewers to rural India, focusing on two brides who get switched during a train journey. Their husbands embark on a quest to find the right bride, setting off a series of unexpected events.
Produced by Aamir Khan Productions and Kindling Productions, the film marks Kiran Rao’s return to direction after Dhobi Ghat. Before its theatrical release, Laapataa Ladies premiered at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where it received a standing ovation.
Last year, 2018, starring Tovino Thomas, was selected as India’s entry for the 96th Academy Awards, though it did not secure a nomination. However, the 95th Oscars proved successful for India, with the song Naatu Naatu from RRR winning Best Original Song. Additionally, The Elephant Whisperers claimed the Oscar for Best Documentary (Short), while Shaunak Sen’s All That Breathes was nominated for Best Documentary Feature.
All the best to the team of Laapataa Ladies!
