Chhaya Kadam Reflects on Oscar Nominations: A Tale of Two Films
Chhaya Kadam is navigating a whirlwind of emotions following the announcement that her film Laapataa Ladies has been chosen as India’s official entry for the Oscars 2025. The actress, known for her compelling performances, is delighted by the recognition her latest project has received. However, she can’t help but feel a pang of disappointment that her other film, All We Imagine As Light, didn’t make the cut.
Currently attending a special screening of All We Imagine As Light in Paris, Kadam spoke with enthusiasm about the triumph of Laapataa Ladies, while also expressing her sentiments about her other project. Directed by Kiran Rao, Laapataa Ladies features Kadam in the role of Manju Maai, a spirited woman who operates a tea stall at a bustling railway station. The film, which also stars Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastav, and notable actors like Ravi Kishan, has garnered considerable attention and praise.
In an interview with India Today, Kadam shared, “I am very happy and excited. It is a moment of pride for me that our film, Laapataa Ladies, got selected as India’s official entry for the Oscars. It feels surreal to be part of something that has received such international recognition.”
Despite her joy for Laapataa Ladies, Kadam’s heart is divided. All We Imagine As Light, directed by Payal Kapadia, has made significant strides on the global stage. It won the prestigious Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival, marking a historic moment for Indian cinema. The film tells the poignant story of two Malayali nurses navigating life in Mumbai and has been shortlisted by France as a potential submission for the Oscars. Kadam, who portrayed the character Parvaty in this groundbreaking film, reflects on its journey with a sense of pride.
“I am thrilled for Laapataa Ladies, but at the same time, I feel a bit saddened for Payal’s film. It deserved a chance to shine on the same stage. I wish both films could be recognized by the Oscars, but I understand that such decisions lie with the Film Federation,” she lamented. The actress’s candid remarks highlight the complexities of the film industry, where multiple talents can coexist but not all can receive the spotlight simultaneously.
Laapataa Ladies is produced by a collaboration of industry giants, including Jio Studios, Aamir Khan Productions, and Kindling Pictures. The film’s streaming availability on Netflix makes it accessible to a broader audience, allowing viewers to experience Kadam’s portrayal of a resilient woman in a challenging environment. Her character, Manju Maai, embodies the spirit of perseverance and strength, resonating deeply with the audience.
As Kadam engages with the film community in Paris, she finds herself at a unique crossroads, celebrating the achievements of one film while grappling with the near miss of another. She expresses her gratitude for the opportunities she’s received and the stories she’s been able to tell through her work. “Each film is a journey, and both Laapataa Ladies and All We Imagine As Light represent different facets of our lives and the narratives we wish to share. It’s about connecting with people, regardless of borders,” she remarked.
The significance of All We Imagine As Light cannot be understated, especially as it became the first Indian film in three decades—and the first directed by a woman—to compete in the main competition at the Cannes Film Festival. This historic achievement underscores the evolving landscape of Indian cinema, where diverse voices are increasingly being recognized on international platforms.
Kadam’s role in both films showcases her versatility as an actress, capable of bringing depth to varied characters. While Laapataa Ladies presents a light-hearted yet poignant look at life’s struggles through the lens of a tea stall operator, All We Imagine As Light delves into the complexities of identity and the immigrant experience. The juxtaposition of these two narratives speaks to Kadam’s range and the rich tapestry of stories being told in contemporary Indian cinema.
As the Oscar buzz builds around Laapataa Ladies, Kadam remains focused on her craft and the importance of storytelling. She believes that every film contributes to a larger dialogue about society and culture. “Cinema has the power to challenge perceptions, spark conversations, and inspire change. I am proud to be part of this dynamic industry,” she expressed.
The actress’s reflections remind us of the dual nature of success in the arts—where one triumph often accompanies the shadow of another’s unfulfilled potential. Yet, in Kadam’s case, her passion for both projects shines through, illuminating the spirit of collaboration and creativity that defines filmmaking.
With the Oscars on the horizon, all eyes will be on Laapataa Ladies as it represents India on a global stage. Meanwhile, All We Imagine As Light continues to earn accolades, solidifying its place in the annals of cinema history. For Chhaya Kadam, this moment is not just about recognition; it’s a celebration of the stories that unite us and the diverse voices that are finally being heard.
As the journey unfolds, Kadam stands at the heart of it all, embodying the dreams and aspirations of countless artists striving for their place in the limelight. Whether it’s through a tea stall in Laapata Ladies or the struggles of nurses in All We Imagine As Light, her performances serve as a reminder of the power of film to reflect the human experience.
Aamir Khan is over the moon about Laapataa Ladies getting selected as India's Oscars entry
Kiran Rao recently shared insights into her conversation with her ex-husband and co-producer Aamir Khan after their film Laapataa Ladies was selected as India’s official entry for the Academy Awards next year. In an interview with India Today, Kiran described Aamir’s reaction to the news, saying, “Aamir tends to downplay things, but he was genuinely thrilled. He congratulated everyone, saying, ‘Mubarakan hum sabko, bahut bahut mubarak’ (Congratulations to all of us). I first spoke to him over the phone, then waited to meet him after a screening. He’s incredibly happy and knows that this is just the beginning of the journey for the campaign. Being chosen as India’s entry feels like an award in itself.”
Reflecting on her past experiences, Kiran recalled the Oscar campaign for Aamir’s first production, Lagaan, back in 2001. Serving as an Assistant Director on the film, she met Aamir during that time. Lagaan went on to receive a nomination for Best Foreign Film at the 2002 Academy Awards, although it did not win. “I didn’t attend the Oscars, but I asked Aamir a lot of questions about it. Back then, we had to wait for the newspaper the next day to hear the news. When we learned about the nomination, we were in shock—‘Oscars! What!’—and then they started working on the campaign. I’ve heard so many stories about the awards and the grandeur of the ceremony. It was 23 years ago, but the excitement remains. I’m hopeful I’ll have some stories of my own to share this time,” she added.
Laapataa Ladies, co-produced by Kiran’s Kindling Pictures, Aamir Khan Productions, and Jio Studios, features a fresh cast including Sparsh Srivastava, Pratibha Ranta, and Nitanshi Goyal, alongside seasoned actors like Ravi Kishan and Chhaya Kadam. The film is currently available for streaming on Netflix India.