‘Laapataa Ladies’ Misses Oscar Shortlist

India-West News Desk

MUMBAI – Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies, India’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards, is no longer in contention. Despite the buzz surrounding its selection, the film failed to make the Oscars shortlist announced by the Academy.

Following the announcement, the makers expressed their disappointment in a statement while thanking supporters and the jury for their faith in the project.

“We are, of course, disappointed, but deeply grateful for the incredible support we’ve received throughout this journey,” read the joint statement from Jio Studios and Kiran Rao’s Kindling Productions. “Being part of this prestigious process alongside some of the finest films worldwide has been an honor.”

The statement also extended congratulations to the 15 shortlisted films and optimism for future projects. “This is not the end but a step forward. We remain committed to telling powerful stories and sharing them with the world.”

The Film Federation of India (FFI), led by Jahnu Barua, had selected Laapataa Ladies in September from 29 entries across various Indian languages, including Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine As Light and the National Award-winning Aattam.