Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies becomes India’s official entry for Oscars 2025

Laapataa Ladies has generated immense excitement and received a positive reception from both audiences and critics alike. The film continues to earn recognition and has been picked as India’s official entry to the 97th Academy Awards, set to take place next year in March. The rural set drama beat 29 other movies from India to enter the Oscars 2025 race.

The Film Federation of India (FFI) on Monday confirmed that Kiran Rao-directorial Laapataa Ladies is India’s official entry for Oscars 2025. The film, co-produced by Aamir Khan along with Rao, garnered positive reviews upon its release from audiences and critics due to its different story. Apart from this, Tamil film Maharaja, Telugu titles Kalki 2898 AD and Hanu-Man, as well as the Hindi films Swatantraya Veer Savarkar and Article 370 were also on the list. Well, this is definitely a commendable feat for the movie.

Kiran Rao’s Statement on Laapataa Ladies Oscar entry

“I’m deeply honoured and beyond delighted that our film ‘Laapataa Ladies’ has been chosen as India’s official entry to the Academy Awards. This recognition is a testament to the tireless work of my entire team, whose dedication and passion brought this story to life. Cinema has always been a powerful medium to connect hearts, transcend boundaries, and ignite meaningful conversations. I hope that this film will resonate with audiences across the world, just as it has in India.

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the selection committee and to everyone who believed in this film. ​It is indeed a great privilege to be selected from among such amazing Indian films this year – who are equally worthy contenders for this honour.

Expressing gratitude towards the producers

“My deepest thanks go to Aamir Khan Productions and Jio Studios for their unwavering support and faith in this vision. It has been a privilege to work alongside such a passionate and talented team of professionals who shared my commitment to telling this story.​ I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the entire cast and crew, whose immense talent, dedication, and hard work made this film possible. This journey has been one of incredible collaboration and growth.”

“To the audience, your love and support mean the world to us, and it is your belief in this film that continues to inspire us as filmmakers to push creative boundaries. Thank you once again for this incredible honour. We look forward to taking this journey ahead with great enthusiasm,” the note ended.

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Kiran Rao previously spoke about Laapataa Ladies entry Oscars

Before Laapataa Ladies got an entry to the Oscars, director Kiran Rao said the Film Federation of India (FFI) will pick the best film. “My dream would be fulfilled if it was, if it would go (to Oscars). But it’s a process, and I’m hoping it’ll (Laapataa Ladies) be considered. I’m sure the best film will go, whoever they choose in the scheme of things,” Kiran told PTI.

Earlier in February, at a press screening for the movie, Kiran said: “Our primary recognition comes from the audience’s response at the box office. If the viewers and the nation appreciate our work, that would be the greatest accolade for us. There is a specific community tasked with assessing and selecting the finest films of the year, and if our film is deemed worthy, we will submit it for the prestigious Oscars.“

Laapataa Ladies stars Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, Chhaya Kadam and Ravi Kishan.

Also read: Kiran Rao directed Laapataa Ladies ticket prices reduced to Rs 100 on International Women’s Day