Aaamir Khan and Kiran Rao
| Photo Credit: Getty Images/ PTI
Aamir Khan Productions has issued an official statement following the exclusion of Laapataa Ladies from the Oscars 2025 shortlist for Best International Feature Film. The Film Federation of India’s decision to bypass the Kiran Rao-directed satire sparked significant backlash among cinephiles and industry figures alike.
The satire of two brides swapped in rural India during the 1990s, had garnered critical acclaim, but despite its domestic success, its omission form the Oscar shortlist has reignited a familiar debate about the FFI’s selection criteria. Critics have accused the body of consistently favoring crowd-pleasing films over bold, cinematic works with more global appeal.
In a statement, Aamir Khan Productions expressed disappointment but maintained a tone of gratitude:
“Laapataa Ladies (Lost Ladies) did not make it to the Academy Awards shortlist this year, and we are of course disappointed, but equally we are immensely grateful for the incredible support and belief we’ve received throughout this journey. We at Aamir Khan Productions, Jio Studios and Kindling Productions extend our gratitude to the Academy members and the FFI jury for considering our film. To be included in this prestigious process alongside some of the finest films from across the world is an honor in itself. Our heartfelt thanks to all the audiences around the world who have expressed their love and support for our film. We congratulate the teams of all the top 15 shortlisted films and wish them the very best in the next stages of the awards. For us, this is not the end but a step forward. We remain committed to bringing more powerful stories to life and sharing them with the world. Thank you for being part of this journey.”
The snub has of course brought Payal Kapadia’s Cannes-winning film, All We Imagine As Light, back to the limelight, that many believed to be India’s strongest contender. Kapadia’s ode to Mumbai’s working class has already earned recognition from the Golden Globes and Critics’ Choice Awards, further spotlighting what critics see as a missed opportunity for India on the global stage.
While the Oscars race continues with frontrunners like Emilia Pérez, I’m Still Here and Kneecap, the exclusion of Laapataa Ladies adds another chapter to India’s contentious history with the Academy Awards.
Published – December 18, 2024 02:13 pm IST