Kiran Rao ’s film Laapataa Ladies was announced as India's official entry for the Oscars 2025 , it was soon followed by a wave of reactions that flooded social media. Many netizens expressed disappointment that Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine As Light , which had recently won accolades at Cannes, was overlooked. The decision was made by a 12-member jury led by Assamese director Jahnu Barua , who provided insights into the selection process.
Top Picks For You Exclusive Interview! Kiran Rao on her directorial Laapataa Ladies making it to the Oscars Nitanshi Goel to Kiran Rao: ‘Mam, aapne toh bahut sapne poore kar diye’ as Laapataa Ladies heads to Oscars 2025 In an interview with The Indian Express, Barua explained that the jury's primary responsibility was to select a film that authentically represents India's diverse social fabric and ethos. He stated, “The jury has to look at the right film that represents India on all fronts. Particularly, the film has to represent India’s social systems and ethos.
The Indianness is very important, and Laapataa Ladies scored on that front” . He emphasized that while there may be better films outside the shortlist of 29 contenders, the jury could only choose from those submitted. He added, “It is important that the best-suited film, which represents India, is sent as the official entry to the Oscars.
There could be a better film outside the 29 films that were nominated too. But the jury can only choose from what they have been .
