Indian cinema has a long history of making its mark at the Oscars, from classic nominations like ‘Mother India’ (1957) to recent successes such as ‘RRR’ (2022). While competition remains fierce, hopes are high again as ‘Laapataa Ladies’ prepares to enter the race for the Best International Feature Film title. Let’s take a close look into the rising buzz surrounding the film. The Journey of ‘Laapataa Ladies’: From Theatrical Miss to Netflix Success Produced by Jio Studios, Aamir Khan Productions, and Kindling Pictures, ‘Laapataa Ladies’ premiered on September 8, 2023, at the Toronto International Film Festival. After its theatrical release on March 1, 2024, the initial reception was unfavorable. However, the satirical film found new life following its Netflix debut on April 26, garnering widespread acclaim. The movie was directed by Kiran Rao. The production credit goes to Rao, Aamir Khan, and Jyoti Deshpande. The cast features Pratibha Ranta, Nitanshi Goyel, Chhaya Kadam, Sparsh Shrivastava, Abhay Shankar Dubey, Geeta Aggarwal Sharma, Ravi Kishan, and Durgesh Kumar. Read more: October 2024 Bollywood Release Lineup: Top 10 Hindi Movies to Watch ‘Laapataa Ladies’ Sets Its Sights on the Oscars On Monday, September 23, the Film Federation of India announced ‘Laapataa Ladies’ as its official entry for the 97th Academy Awards. This film will compete for a nomination in the Best International Feature Film category, representing India on the global stage. The selection committee, consisting of 13 members and chaired by acclaimed Assamese director Jahnu Barua, has made this decision. The selection process saw the movie outshine 29 notable contenders, including Cannes winner ‘All We Imagine as Light’, the Bollywood hit ‘Animal’, and the Malayalam film ‘Aattam’. As per Oscar rules, only one film from each country can be submitted for the Best International Feature Film category. A shortlist of 15 films is created from entries submitted worldwide, from which 5 will be nominated for the final event. Read more: Must-watch South Indian Films Releasing in October 2024

Kiran Rao's “Laapataa Ladies” has emerged as one of the unexpected cinematic gems of this year. Praised for its lively comedy and relatable storyline, the film brilliantly depicts the rebellion of rural women against societal norms. This coming-of-age tale cleverly satirizes entrenched social stereotypes, drawing significant attention and acclaim from critics. In light of the film's success, we have carefully selected a list of ten films released between 2023 and 2024 that echo the essence of “Laapataa Ladies”. Each film, unique in its own right, offers a fresh perspective on themes relevant to fans of Rao's work. 10 Must-Watch Films for Fans of Laapataa Ladies Chhatriwali | Hindi Social Comedy | January 20, 2023 Helmed by Tejas Deoskar, this Indian film premiered on ZEE5 and features Rakul Preet Singh, Rajesh Tailang, Sumeet Vyas, Satish Kaushik, and Dolly Ahluwalia. Set in Karnal, the story revolves around Sanya Dhingra, an unemployed female chemistry prodigy, navigating the job market while tackling the societal taboo of Sex Education. Read more: ‘Shaitaan’ Movie Review: A Chilling Fusion of Psychological Intrigue and Supernatural Thrills The film aims to highlight the significance of male contraceptives and safe sex practices, emphasizing how women can drive societal and familial change. Singh's character can inspire women to lead social movements fearlessly, despite potential backlash from family or society. Polite Society | British Action Comedy | April 28, 2023 In her feature film directorial debut, Nida Manzoor presents Priya Kansara, Ritu Arya, Akshay Khanna, Nimra Bucha, Ella Bruccoleri, Seraphina Beh, Jeff Mirza, Shona Babayemi, and Shobu Kapoor. The story revolves around teen martial artist-in-training Ria Khan's quest to save her older sister Lena from marrying against her dreams, leading to an ambitious wedding heist driven by independence and sisterhood. This great comedy film celebrates the strength and resilience of South Asian women, challenging societal expectations and patriarchal traditions. Read more: May 2024: A Riveting Lineup of Korean Dramas Premiering on Netflix Satyaprem Ki Katha | Romantic Drama | June 29, 2023 In the Hindi film directed by Sameer Vidwans and featuring Kiara Advani and Kartik Aaryan as the lead characters, the supporting ensemble includes Gajraj Rao, Siddharth Randeria, Supriya Pathak, Rajpal Yadav, and Anuradha Patel. In 'Satyaprem Ki Katha,' a middle-class youth named Satyaprem finds himself in unrequited love with Katha, who is navigating the aftermath of her breakup with Tapan. As their journey unfolds, they delve into each other's lives and find completion in unfinished endeavors. A notable highlight of this musical drama is the couple's endeavor to navigate intimacy on Katha's terms, a departure from conventional norms. Equally significant is Satyaprem's family's unwavering support for Katha, challenging societal expectations where families are often portrayed as embarrassed by such situations. Read more: Shattering Records: ‘The Roundup: Punishment’ Dominates Korean Box Office Tarla | Indian Biopic | July 7, 2023 Directed and co-written by Piyush Gupta, this biopic delves into the life of renowned Indian chef and author Tarla Dalal, portrayed by Huma Qureshi. Alongside Sharib Hashmi, Bharati Achrekar, and Bhawana Somaaya, Qureshi embodies Dalal's pioneering spirit during the early years of liberalization, empowering women through culinary arts. 'Tarla' on ZEE5 traverses Dalal's legacy, subtly addressing internalized misogyny, stereotypes, and the broader theme of gender equality. It emphasizes that aspirations, careers, and dreams transcend gender, advocating for dismantling patriarchal norms that constrain both women and men. Sesham Mike-il Fathima | Malayalam Comedy | November 17, 2023 Written and directed by Manu C. Kumar in his directorial debut, this South Indian film stars Kalyani Priyadarshan in the lead role. The cast also includes Gautham Vasudev Menon in a cameo appearance alongside Sudheesh, Shaheen Siddique, Aneesh G. Menon, Sabumon Abdusamad, and Unnimaya Prasad. The narrative follows Fathima Noorjahan, a young Muslim woman from Malappuram with aspirations of becoming a football commentator. The storyline delves into a woman’s determination, dreams, and obstacles to achieve equality and recognition. Read more: May 2024 Amazon Prime Originals: Most-Hyped Shows, Web Series, and Movies

After nearly 15 years of marriage, Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan and his filmmaker wife Kiran Rao announced their divorce on Saturday. In a statement, however, the 56-year-old "Mr Perfectionist", who has a huge fan following in Bangladesh, and Kiran pledged to remain devoted parents to their son Azad and work as collaborators on film projects "that we feel passionate about". "In these 15 beautiful years together we have shared a lifetime of experiences, joy and laughter, and our relationship has only grown in trust, respect and love. Now we would like to begin a new chapter in our lives -- no longer as husband and wife, but as co-parents and family for each other.  Also read:Lagaan Part 2: Netizens recall Aamir Khan’s movie before India vs England clash "We began a planned separation some time ago, and now feel comfortable to formalise this arrangement, of living separately yet sharing our lives the way an extended family does," the statement read. The couple added: "We remain devoted parents to our son Azad, who we will nurture and raise together. We will also continue to work as collaborators on films, Paani Foundation, and other projects that we feel passionate about." Aamir and Kiran also thanked their families and friends for their constant support and understanding "about this evolution in our relationship". "We request our well wishers for good wishes and blessings, and hope that - like us - you will see this divorce not as an end, but as the start of a new journey." Also read: Bill and Melinda Gates announce they are getting divorced Aamir tied the knot with Kiran in 2005 and were blessed with their son six years later. The couple first met on the sets of Bollywood blockbuster Lagaan, where Kiran was an assistant director. Known as "Mr Perfectionist" in Bollywood, Aamir has established himself as one of the most influential actors of Indian cinema through his 30-year career in Hindi films. He is the fourth richest actor with a net worth of USD 180 million. Aamir made his debut as a child artiste in his uncle Nasir Hussain's blockbuster film Yaadon Ki Baaraat in 1973. His adult debut was with the film Holi in 1984. But he shot to limelight for his brilliant performance in Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak four years later.  In 1999, he founded Aamir Khan Productions, whose first film, Lagaan (2001), got him a National Film Award. Also read: The three Khans who still rule Bollywood After a four-year gap, Aamir made a comeback with back-to-back blockbusters like Fanaa and Rang De Basanti. He made his directorial debut with Taare Zameen Par (2007), which also won him the awards for Best Film and Best Director. His greatest global success came with Ghajini, 3 Idiots, Dhoom 3, PK, and Dangal. Apart from receiving a number of awards, including four National Film Awards and the Padma Shri and the Padma Bhushan, Aamir was conferred with an honorary title by the Chinese government in 2017.  The superstar's first marriage with Reena Dutta ended in divorce in 2002. He has two children from his first marriage.