Laapataa Ladies, directed by Kiran Rao, has been selected as India’s official entry for the Oscars 2025. This decision has sparked discussion as it was chosen over the Cannes Grand Prix winner All We Imagine As Light.
Why Laapataa Ladies?
The Film Federation of India (FFI) announced that Laapataa Ladies was chosen from a list of 29 films, including notable entries like “Animal” and “Aattam“. The selection committee, led by Assamese director Jahnu Barua, unanimously picked this film for its engaging storyline and universal appeal.
Laapataa Ladies is a light-hearted comedy that explores gender equality and empowerment.
It tells the story of two brides who accidentally swap during a train journey in rural India.
The film has been praised for its portrayal of Indian women as both humble and powerful, capturing their diverse roles in society.
The Cannes Winner: All We Imagine As Light
On the other hand, All We Imagine As Light, directed by Payal Kapadia, won the prestigious Grand Prix at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival.
The film was lauded for its cinematography and storytelling, set in Mumbai. Despite its international acclaim, it was not India’s Oscar entry.
Public Reaction
The decision to select Laapataa Ladies over All We Imagine As Light divided opinions.
While many celebrated the choice, others felt that the Cannes-winning film had a better chance of securing an Oscar nomination due to its international recognition.
What’s Next for Laapataa Ladies?
Kiran Rao expressed her gratitude and excitement about representing India at the Oscars.
She hopes the film will resonate with global audiences just as it did in India. The film now faces competition from around 50 other international submissions to secure a spot among the top five nominees.
Do you think Laapataa Ladies will make a mark at the Oscars? Share your thoughts!