India has officially selected ‘Laapataa Ladies’ as its entry for the Best Foreign Film category at the 97th Academy Awards. Directed by Kiran Rao and produced by Aamir Khan, the film stands out for its focus on important social themes like gender equality and women’s empowerment in rural India.
The announcement was made by Kiran Rao’s team, confirming the selection of this impactful film, which tells the story of two brides who are mistakenly switched during a train journey in 2001. The film stars Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Srivastava, and Nitanshi Goel in leading roles, creating a blend of engaging storytelling and social commentary.
‘Laapataa Ladies’ recently gained attention during a special screening at the Supreme Court of India, where Kiran Rao expressed her gratitude to the Chief Justice for showcasing the film. The screening helped broaden its audience, emphasizing the film’s importance in addressing rural social issues.
The film also features Ravi Kishan, Chhaya Kadam, and Geeta Aggarwal Sharma, contributing to a strong, diverse cast. Released in March, ‘Laapataa Ladies’ has garnered critical acclaim for its compelling narrative and performances.
The submission deadline for the 96th Academy Awards is November 14, 2024. The shortlist for Best International Feature will be announced on December 17, with the final nominations revealed on January 17, 2025. The 97th Academy Awards ceremony will take place on March 2, 2025.
