India’s official entry for the 97th Academy Awards, Kiran Rao’s satire Laapataa Ladies, has failed to make it to the shortlist in the Best International Feature category. The film was selected by the Film Federation of India (FFI) in September from a pool of 29 films, including notable titles like Animal, Aattam, and All We Imagine As Light.
Filmmaker Hansal Mehta expressed his disappointment on X, sarcastically criticizing the FFI’s poor “strike rate” in selecting films for the Oscars. Sharing the shortlist, he wrote, “Film Federation of India does it again! Their strike rate and selection of films year after year is impeccable.”

 

The director’s frustration resonated with many fans and industry insiders, who took to social media to express their support for Mehta. They called for a review of the selection process and a more transparent and inclusive approach to choosing India’s Oscar entries.

Laapataa Ladies had been widely praised for its fresh narrative and strong performances, making its exit from the Oscars race a hot topic in Indian cinema. The controversy has sparked a larger debate about the credibility and fairness of India’s film selection process for international awards, especially the Oscars. As the issue gains traction, many are urging the FFI to adopt a more transparent and merit-based system for future submissions. The debate also highlights the need for greater recognition of diverse and independent cinema within India’s Oscar selection process.

Film Federation of India does it again! Their strike rate and selection of films year after year is impeccable. pic.twitter.com/hiwmatzDbW

— Hansal Mehta (@mehtahansal) December 17, 2024

Grammy-winning composer Ricky Kej also voiced his disapproval, stating that while Laapataa Ladies was a well-made and entertaining film, it was not the right choice to represent India in the international category. He shared his thoughts alongside the film’s posters, reiterating his belief that the decision was bound to fail.

See Also: Aamir Khan on Laapataa Ladies’ Oscar 2025 Snub

 

So, the @TheAcademy Oscars shortlist is out. #LaapataaLadies is a very well made, entertaining movie (I enjoyed it), but was absolutely the wrong choice to represent India for the best #InternationalFeatureFilm category. As expected, it lost.
When are we going to realize.. year… pic.twitter.com/iWGpSXY1KD

— Ricky Kej (@rickykej) December 18, 2024

The Oscars shortlist snub has reignited criticism of the FFI’s selection process, with industry voices urging a more strategic approach to choosing films that align with Academy voters’ preferences.