India’s Official Oscar Entry Wins Big at IIFA Awards 2025
“Laapataa Ladies,” India’s official Oscar entry, won 10 awards at the IIFA, including Best Picture and Best Director. The film addresses themes of patriarchy and gender roles, marking a shift from traditional Bollywood narratives. Kiran Rao expressed gratitude for the recognition during her acceptance speech.
India’s official entry for the Oscars, which did not secure a nomination, has won big at the International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA). Director Kiran Rao’s film “Laapataa Ladies,” also known as “Lost Ladies” for its Oscar run, garnered ten awards including Best Picture and Best Direction.
The 2023 comedy portrays the story of two veiled brides who accidentally swap places during a train journey. The film addresses themes of patriarchy and gender roles, representing a significant shift from the traditional male-centric narratives in Hindi cinema.
Kiran Rao expressed her gratitude during her acceptance speech, stating, “It’s a rare privilege to win an award for a film like ‘Laapataa Ladies.’ It’s been a wonderful night. It’s a rare privilege to make a film like this.”
In addition to Best Picture, the film achieved recognition in various categories such as Best Story, Best Screenplay, and Best Actress in a Leading Role. The IIFA ceremony took place in Jaipur, beginning on Saturday and concluding the following day.
The event was a star-studded affair, featuring performances from Bollywood luminaries like Shah Rukh Khan and Shahid Kapoor. Hosted by director Karan Johar and actor Kartik Aaryan, the show highlighted the fashion statements of Indian celebrities, with appearances by stars like Madhuri Dixit, Katrina Kaif, and Kareena Kapoor Khan on the green carpet.
In summary, although “Laapataa Ladies” did not meet with Oscar success, its remarkable performance at the IIFA Awards underscores its critical acclaim and the importance of emerging narratives in Indian cinema. Directed by Kiran Rao, the film’s focus on gender roles and its distinguished achievements reflect a progressive shift within the Bollywood landscape.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
