Date: December 19, 2024
Laapataa Ladies Misses Out on Oscars 2025
Laapataa Ladies Fails to Enter Oscars 2025 Shortlist
Laapataa Ladies, hailed as one of the most beautiful Hindi films of the year, earned widespread acclaim and chosen as India’s official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2025 Oscars. However, in a recent announcement, The Academy released its shortlist, and unfortunately, Laapataa Ladies did not make the cut, officially ending its Oscar journey.
UK’s Santosh Represents Rural India
While Laapataa Ladies bowed out, a film titled Santosh from the United Kingdom secured its place in the prestigious Best International Feature Film category. Interestingly, the movie set in rural India and premiered at the 77th Cannes Film Festival in May 2024, garnering international attention.
Directed by Sandhya Suri, Santosh tells the gripping story of a young widow, played by Shahana, who inherits her late husband’s job as a police constable. As she navigates the challenges of her new role, she uncovers institutional corruption while working with the rough yet skilled Inspector Sharma, portrayed by Sunita Rajwar, on a gruesome murder case involving a Dalit teenager.
The Oscars Journey
Out of 85 eligible countries and regions, only 15 international films advanced to the next voting round. Despite not making it to the Oscars shortlist, Laapataa Ladies has left a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike, showcasing the strength and diversity of Indian cinema.
The Story Behind Laapataa Ladies
The film, set in the rural backdrop of 2001, follows the lives of two newlywed brides who go missing during a train journey. Through its comedic yet thought-provoking narrative, the movie sheds light on societal issues and human emotions. With a stellar cast and Kiran Rao’s masterful direction, the film was widely praised for its originality and impactful storytelling. Despite the accolades, the journey to the Oscars ended prematurely for Laapataa Ladies.
Indian Cinema’s Global Impact
While the disappointment of movie missing out on the Oscars shortlist remains, the presence of Santosh highlights the global impact of Indian narratives. Both films underscore the richness of storytelling rooted in India’s culture and social realities.