Laapataa Ladies is India’s Official Entry for Oscars 2025 

The selection of Laapataa Ladies as India’s official entry for the Oscars 2025 in the Best Foreign Language Film category has ignited excitement and debate among cinephiles. Directed by Kiran Rao, the film has garnered praise for its unique plot, exceptional performances, and authentic Indian storytelling.

Set in rural India, Laapataa Ladies tells the amusing yet touching story of two brides who get lost due to an unexpected mix-up. The narrative, brimming with humor, social commentary, and a heartfelt exploration of identity, resonated with audiences. Rao, backed by Aamir Khan Productions, brought her signature charm to the storytelling, weaving together a film that is lighthearted yet profound.

The cast, featuring debutantes Nitanshi Goel, Sparsh Shrivastava, Pratibha Ranta, and seasoned actors Chhaya Kadam and Ravi Kishan, received widespread acclaim for their convincing performances. Each actor contributed to making the characters relatable and memorable, which, according to many fans, was a major factor in the film’s success.

The decision by the Film Federation of India to select Laapataa Ladies reflects a shift towards recognizing diverse stories that highlight the country’s rich cultural and social tapestry. It isn’t just the plot that stands out but also the attention to detail in portraying life in small-town India—a theme often overlooked on the global stage.

Supporters of the film believe that Laapataa Ladies has the right blend of humor, emotion, and cultural specificity to appeal to the Academy voters. The film’s accessible yet nuanced depiction of Indian life, combined with Kiran Rao’s directorial finesse, makes it a strong contender.

A particularly striking moment that resonates with many is the line, “Face hi to sab kuch hota hai… face dhak dena matlab pehchan dhak dena,” which subtly explores identity in a way that is both humorous and deeply introspective. This kind of layered storytelling, where comedy meets social reflection, is what fans believe gives Laapataa Ladies an edge.

However, not everyone agrees. The selection has disappointed some fans, particularly those who rooted for All We Imagine As Light, a film many considered more worthy due to its intense narrative and artistic depth. Yet, the FFI’s choice of Laapataa Ladies over this rival film indicates a preference for stories that resonate emotionally with a wider audience.

The debate mirrors the 2019 Oscars selection of Gully Boy, which, while celebrated by some, also faced criticism for sidelining other deserving films. The conversation now centers on what constitutes a “worthy” Oscar entry and whether Laapataa Ladies embodies that.

In the end, what matters most is that Laapataa Ladies brings a uniquely Indian story to the global stage. Whether it can achieve Oscar glory remains to be seen, but for now, it stands as a celebration of Indian cinema’s ability to captivate audiences with humor, heart, and humanity.