The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has recently revealed the shortlists for ten categories in anticipation of the 97th Academy Awards. Unfortunately, India's official submission, Laapataa Ladies, was not included in the shortlist for the International Feature Film category. In a discussion with News18, Chhaya Kadam conveyed her disappointment regarding this outcome.

Chhaya Kadam upset as Laapataa Ladies fail to get shortlisted for Oscars 2025

Chhaya Kadam, who portrayed Manju Mai in Kiran Rao's Laapataa Ladies, conveyed her disappointment by stating, “Look, what can we do! I am truly disheartened. We had high aspirations for our film." Nevertheless, she remains optimistic about India's prospects at the Oscars next year. “It’s alright. We will continue to strive for all our future projects. We will persist. Next time, we will return to the Oscars and advance further in the competition," she remarked.

Chhaya Kadam recalls manifesting an Oscar win for Laapataa Ladies.

When inquired about her opportunity to converse with Kiran Rao, the director of Laapataa Ladies, Chhaya responded, "To be honest, I have not had the chance. I would like to allow her some time, as she has just returned to India from the USA after spending approximately a month there." She went on to mention their recent meeting, during which they expressed their aspirations for an Oscar victory, stating, “In fact, we met just three days ago at an event. We were filled with joy and optimism about advancing in the competition. I sincerely hope that All We Imagine As Light also receives an Oscar nomination."

Although Laapataa Ladies has withdrawn from the Oscars 2025 race, Guneet Monga's Anuja has been shortlisted in the Best Live-Action Short Film category, sustaining the hopes of Indian filmmakers for an Oscar. This nomination marks Monga's third at the Oscars, following her previous wins for The Elephant Whisperers and Period: End of Sentence, which have brought significant recognition to Indian cinema.

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