"We are, of course, disappointed but immensely grateful."
Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies (2023) garnered excitement in recent weeks.
The film was selected as India’s official entry to the 2025 Academy Awards in the category of ‘Best International Feature Film’.
To promote the film, Kiran and her ex-husband and producer, Aamir Khan, have been travelling globally and giving interviews about the movie.
However, in disappointing news for fans, Laapataa Ladies, marketed internationally as Lost Ladies, did not make it to the top 15 choices.
Therefore, the film will not be nominated at the 2025 ceremony. Speaking about the snub, Aamir Khan Productions released a statement.
It said: “Laapataa Ladies did not make it to the Academy Awards shortlist this year, and we are, of course, disappointed but immensely grateful for the incredible support.
“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 honour in itself.
“Our heartfelt thanks to all the audiences around the world who have expressed love and support for our film.”
JIO Studios added: “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.”
Laapataa Ladies narrated the story of two brides who get mixed up when Deepak Kumar (Sparsh Shrivastav) brings the wrong wife home from a train station.
Set in rural India in 2001, the movie tackled themes of feminism, culture, and challenged Indian stereotypes.
It marked Kiran’s return to direction after Dhobi Ghat (2010).
When the film was announced as India’s official entry to the Academy Awards, Kiran said:
“This recognition is a testament to the tireless work of my entire team, whose dedication and passion brought this story to life.
“It has been a privilege for me to work with a talented team for this film.
“I want to thank the entire cast and crew from the bottom of my heart, whose immense talent, dedication and hard work made this film possible.
“Cinema has always been a powerful medium to connect hearts, transcend boundaries, and ignite meaningful conversations.
“I hope that this film will resonate with audiences across the world, just as it has in India.”
Currently, only three Indian films have been nominated for an Academy Award in the category. These include Mother India (1957) and Salaam Bombay (1988).
The third and latest film to be nominated was Lagaan (2001), which was also produced by Aamir Khan.
However, it lost the award to No Man’s Land (2001) from Bosnia.
Meanwhile, the 2023 international films that were mentioned in the top 15 choices include I’m Still Here (Brazil), Touch (Iceland), and Armand (Norway).
The 97th Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars, will air on March 3, 2025.
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