- Wednesday, September 25, 2024
Rao recalled her disbelief when she first received the news. “I initially thought it was a prank when the first call came through, but I’m delighted and humbled,” she said
By: India Weekly
KIRAN RAO, the director of Laapataa Ladies, has expressed her “slight shock” after learning that her film will represent India at the Oscars 2025 in the Best International Film category.
The Film Federation of India selected the film from among 29 titles. Speaking to PTI, Rao said, “The journey has only just begun with being chosen as India’s entry to the Oscars. It’s a long and hard journey because there’s a lot of expertise, money, and support required and campaign strategy that one has to develop and carry through.”
The film, produced by Rao, Aamir Khan, and Jio Studios, tells the story of two brides in rural India in 2001 who get accidentally swapped during a train journey. The film stars Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, and other notable actors.
Rao recalled her disbelief when she first received the news. “I initially thought it was a prank when the first call came through, but I’m delighted and humbled,” she said.
She also expressed gratitude for the film’s reception at the Toronto International Film Festival and hopes the momentum will help the film succeed internationally.
Rao hopes that her film will find resonance with global audiences, much like Lagaan, which made it to the final five at the 2002 Oscars. “Aamir’s been through this process before, and his insights will definitely help us make informed decisions,” she noted.
