It’s that time of year when cinephiles and the entire Indian film industry rally behind a single movie, hoping it might finally end the long wait for an Indian film to clinch the coveted Oscar for Best Foreign Film. This time, the chosen one is Laapataa Ladies, a film directed by Kiran Rao and produced by Aamir Khan. Officially announced as India’s entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards, the news came during an event in Chennai by the Film Federation of India.
In a glittering event, the jury, led by Film Federation of India President Ravi Kottarakara, revealed that Laapataa Ladies would represent India on the global stage at the Oscars. Directed by Kiran Rao, whose creative brilliance previously gave us Dhobi Ghat, the film is a delightful take on rural India and its quirks, set in the 2000s. Produced by the powerhouse of Bollywood, Aamir Khan, Laapataa Ladies stars the talented Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Srivastava, and Nitanshi Goel.
The storyline revolves around two women mysteriously disappearing during a train journey and the ensuing comedic chaos. While the film highlights the lighter side of life, it also explores deeper themes like societal norms and gender roles. With a unique blend of humor and heart, Laapataa Ladies has already caught the attention of critics and movie buffs alike, making it a fitting choice to represent India at the Oscars.
India’s relationship with the Oscars has always been one of hopeful anticipation. Last year’s entry, 2018 by Jude Anthany Joseph, although well-received domestically, didn’t make it to the shortlist for the 96th Academy Awards. However, India saw significant success at the 95th edition when the iconic song Naatu Naatu from SS Rajamouli’s RRR bagged the Oscar for Best Original Song. Adding to the triumph was The Elephant Whisperers, a heartwarming documentary directed by Kartiki Gonsalves, which won the Academy Award for Best Documentary (Short Subject). Shaunak Sen’s All That Breathes also earned a nomination in the Best Documentary Feature category.
These wins have raised the stakes for India’s Oscar journey, with high hopes pinned on Laapataa Ladies to continue the momentum and possibly bring home the prestigious award in the Best Foreign Film category.
Kiran Rao’s comeback as a director after nearly a decade has been met with widespread acclaim. Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival, Laapataa Ladies captivated audiences with its refreshing narrative and sharp wit. Critics praised the film for its authentic portrayal of rural India, Rao’s unique directorial voice, and the stellar performances of its cast. The film’s success at film festivals has generated positive buzz, making it a strong contender for the Oscars.
With India’s recent Oscar wins still fresh in the memory, there’s a growing belief that Laapataa Ladies could finally achieve what no Indian film has managed to do so far: win the Best Foreign Film Oscar. With its perfect blend of humor, social commentary, and heart, this film just might have what it takes to charm the Academy voters.
As we wait with bated breath for the 97th Academy Awards, all eyes are on Laapataa Ladies. Will this be the film that breaks India’s long-standing Oscar drought? Time will tell, but one thing’s for sure Kiran Rao’s cinematic gem has already made us proud.
