Laapataa Ladies Chosen as India's Oscar Entry Amid Controversy

The Film Federation of India's selection of Laapataa Ladies over Cannes winner All We Imagine As Light has sparked debate on cultural representation and gender portrayal.

Laapataa Ladies, directed by Kiran Rao, has been selected as India's official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2025 Oscars.
The selection has faced backlash, with critics arguing that All We Imagine As Light, a Cannes Grand Prix winner, was a stronger contender.
FFI's citation describing Indian women as a 'strange mixture of submission and dominance' has been criticized as sexist and patronizing.
FFI President Ravi Kottarakara defended the choice, emphasizing Laapataa Ladies' traditional Indian cultural elements over the perceived European style of All We Imagine As Light.
Despite the controversy, both films' teams express mutual respect and hope for success in international recognition.