Kiran Rao reveals why she chose newcomers for 'Laapataa Ladies'
Kiran Rao, the director of Laapataa Ladies, has attributed the film's immense success to its fresh cast. The movie was recently chosen as India's entry for the 2025 Oscars. In an interview with India Today, Rao explained that using new actors helped keep the story "rooted and organic," making it more believable and enjoyable for viewers.
'People didn't recognize the actors...'
Rao further elaborated on her casting strategy, stating, "With a completely fresh cast, people didn't recognize the actors, allowing them to forget and fully immerse themselves in the world of the film. That worked in our favor." The film's production was a joint effort between Aamir Khan Productions, Kindling Pictures, and Jio Studios. It was released in theaters in March.
'Laapataa Ladies' narrative and Rao's gratitude
Laapataa Ladies, set in rural India, tells the tale of two brides who accidentally get swapped at a railway station due to their veils. The film stars newcomers Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, alongside Ravi Kishan and Chhaya Kadam. Expressing her joy over the Oscar nomination, Rao said she was "very happy" and "was not expecting an Oscar entry as many good films have been made this year."
'Laapataa Ladies' competition; India's previous nominations
Laapataa Ladies is competing in the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards, set to take place in 2025. It was selected from a pool of 29 films including Ranbir Kapoor's Animal, Karan Johar-backed Kill, Kalki 2898 AD, Srikanth, Chandu Champion, Maidaan, Sam Bahadur, Article 370 among others. Only three Indian movies have previously received a nomination in this category: Mother India (1957), Salaam Bombay! (1988), and Lagaan (2001).
