Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies wasn’t fortunate enough to enter the shortlist of entries under the International Feature Film category at the Oscars; everyone in the Indian film world, including its cast members, is in shock over it. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences put out its shortlists Tuesday across 10 categories, leaving this one off, which led to a spectrum of responses.
Chhaya Kadam, who played Manju Maai in the film, reflected on her shock and heartbreak, saying, “It is shocking and heartbreaking. I had a lot of hope that the film would make it,” echoing many sentiments in the industry and the film’s fans. She also expressed sympathy for the filmmakers, especially director Kiran Rao and producer Aamir Khan, acknowledging how difficult this must be for them. Though disheartened, Chhaya said she hasn’t yet contacted the twosome but intends to call them later, knowing well the high number of calls they are receiving.
Also Read: Kiran Rao-directorial ‘Laapataa Ladies’ is India’s official entry for Oscars 2025
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Other members of the film fraternity have also reacted with strong criticism. Grammy winner Ricky Kej termed Film Federation of India’s selection as “wrong choice” for India’s official entry to the Oscars. Director Hansal Mehta trolled the Film Federation of India on social media after its decision was questioned when Laapataa Ladies were left out.
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Still, the male lead actor, Sparsh Shrivastava, seems a little more optimistic about it. He said that he is not disappointed and just that being part of the film reaching the Oscars is a big achievement for him. He further mentioned that although he would have liked to see Laapataa Ladies make the cut, the journey in itself was special, and they gave their best for it.
Both the actors spoke about taking pride in being part of the project as Chhaya called both Laapataa Ladies and All We Imagine as Light the best films, suggesting both should have gone to the Oscars. The response from the industry reflects on the lines of disappointment and also respect for the process; the journey of the film, as the team continues inspiring it.
