‘Laapataa Ladies’ is India’s entry to Oscars 2025; Kiran Rao reacts

Kiran Rao-directorial ‘Laapataa Ladies’ has been chosen as India’s official entry to the 97th Academy Awards, set to take place in March 2025. Presented by Jio Studios, ‘Laapataa Ladies’ has generated immense excitement and received a positive reception from both audiences and critics alike. 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 the news. 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.

Reacting to the news, Kiran Rao said, “I am 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.”

Sharing her excitement, Jyoti Deshpande, President Media and Content Business, RIL, said, “‘Laapataa Ladies’ being selected as India’s entry for Oscar is a true testimony of our vision and commitment to Make in India and Show the world...this film has got unlimited love from audiences all over the world already and is one of the most watched films globally on OTT after its unusually long and resilient theatrical run...Jio Studios will do everything in our power to make India proud on a global stage and I thank the Film Federation of India for this honour and privilege.”

The film, a delightful comedy about the misadventures of two young brides who become separated on the same train, is a blend of mistaken identities and laugh-out-loud escapades. Featuring Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, and Ravi Kishan, ‘Laapataa Ladies’ brings its unique charm and humour to a new territory.
Kiran added, “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.”

She further said, “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,” she added.

Presented by Jio Studios, ‘Laapataa Ladies’ is directed by Kiran Rao and produced by Aamir Khan, Kiran Rao and Jyoti Deshpande. The film has been made under the banner of Aamir Khan Productions and Kindling Productions, with the script based on an award-winning story by Biplab Goswami. The screenplay and dialogues are written by Sneha Desai, with additional dialogues penned by Divyanidhi Sharma.

"We are all so happy with the news. I am so proud of Kiran and her entire team. I would like to thank the selection committee of the Film Federation of India, which chose our film to represent India at the Oscars. My heartfelt gratitude to our audience, our media, and the entire film fraternity, for all the love and support they have given Laapata Ladies. Thanks to both Jio and Netflix who have been great partners to work with. I am so happy that all our hard-work has paid off. Thank you everyone. Here’s hoping that Laapata Ladies is able to win the hearts of the members of the Academy" said Aamir Khan.