Kiran Rao’s ‘Laapataa Ladies’ Begins Oscars Campaign

By A Staff Reporter: 

India’s official entry for the 2025 Oscars, Laapataa Ladies, has been rebranded as Lost Ladies for its international audience. The film, directed by Kiran Rao and produced by Aamir Khan Productions in collaboration with Kindling Pictures and Jio Studios, has started its Academy Awards campaign with a newly unveiled poster.

The campaign began in New York at the Indian restaurant The Bungalow, where Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao were joined by celebrity chef Vikas Khanna, who hosted the event. This high-profile gathering has generated buzz within the U.S. Oscars circuit as the film aims for international recognition.

Lost Ladies premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2023, earning critical acclaim for its portrayal of gender dynamics in rural India. Set in 2001, the film follows two brides mistakenly swapped during a chaotic train journey, leading their husbands on a frantic search. The narrative explores themes of identity and empowerment, featuring debut actors Nitanshi Goel and Pratibha Ranta alongside seasoned performers Ravi Kishan and Chhaya Kadam.

The new poster, shared on the film’s official Instagram account, highlights the protagonists with the tagline, “Sometimes you have to lose your way to find yourself.” Designers Jahan Singh Bakshi and Prashanth C were praised for capturing the essence of the film through the poster.

As Lost Ladies embarks on its Oscar campaign, the film is expected to resonate with global audiences, offering a compelling glimpse into the societal fabric of India through its poignant story and powerful performances.