Set in 2001, somewhere in rural India, two young brides get accidentally swapped on a train. In the ensuing chaos, they each encounter a host of colourful characters, resulting in hilarious and unexpected consequences.
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The Hindi-language film, Lost Ladies, which premiered at last year’s Toronto International Film Festival, beat out Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine as Light, which had been considered the frontrunner for the Oscar slot, after its rapturous reception in Cannes, where it won the festival’s Grand Jury Prize. Lost Ladies was released in theatres in March 2024. Yash Raj Films picked up international distribution rights to the film, which bowed on Netflix after its local theatrical release.
The Film Federation of India on Monday, September 23rd, announced that Hindi film Lost Ladies is the country's official entry for the 2025 Oscars under the Foreign Film Category. The jury was led by 13 members this year. A committee overseen by the Film Federation of India selected the title from 29 contenders which also included Bollywood hit Animal, Malayalam National Award winner Aattam and Cannes title All We Imagine as Light.
The film is produced by Jio Studios, along with Aamir Khan Productions and Kindling Pictures.
Lost Ladies is a comedic drama and it was filmed in Dhamankheda, India.
To check out all previous submissions for India, click HERE.
"My husband and son would get drunk and beat me up. And then they would say, 'A man who loves you has the right to hit you.' One day, I exercised my right as well."
Lost Ladies, directed by Kiran Rao, is a refreshingly bold and thought-provoking film that ranks among Bollywood's best recent offerings. Set in a small Indian village, the story revolves around two young brides who mysteriously get lost during a train journey, triggering a chain of events that explore gender, tradition, and identity. With humor and humanity, Rao crafts a nuanced narrative that cleverly critiques the restrictive norms of patriarchy and the invisibility often imposed upon women. Through its simple yet layered plot, Lost Ladies invites audiences to experience both the comedic and poignant sides of a society bound by cultural expectations.
Rao’s direction shines in her deft handling of complex themes, blending humor and irony to deliver social commentary without being overly didactic. The film balances moments of levity with raw, revealing portrayals of village life, highlighting the struggles and resilience of women within a patriarchal setup. The veiled brides, dressed similarly and indistinguishable from one another, become symbols of the societal roles women are expected to fulfill—hidden, compliant, and, too often, interchangeable. Through clever writing, the story humorously unpacks these expectations and offers powerful insights into the everyday lives of women in rural India.
The characters are a standout aspect of Lost Ladies, with strong, natural performances from an ensemble cast. Pratibha Ranta as Jaya and Nitanshi Goel as Phool deliver heartfelt portrayals of young women caught between traditional roles and their desire for independence. Seasoned actor Chhaya Kadam is especially memorable as Manju Mai, a feisty tea seller who befriends Phool, offering wisdom and solidarity in their conversations. Ravi Kishan, too, is brilliant as the morally ambiguous police officer, adding layers to a character that could have easily been one-dimensional. These characters, brought to life with sincerity and subtlety, deepen the film’s impact, making it more than just a story about misplaced brides.
Another highlight of the film is its ability to balance social critique with entertainment. By setting the film in 2001—a time when cellphones were rare and mobility for women was more restricted—the film heightens its exploration of autonomy and agency. Kiran Rao's choice to use humor and satire allows viewers to connect with these themes on an emotional level without being overwhelmed by them. Clever dialogue and situational comedy bring out the ironies and contradictions in a society that praises women's subservience while failing to recognize their individual needs and dreams.
Lost Ladies is a triumph of thoughtful storytelling, offering audiences a sharp, humorous, and ultimately heartwarming look at gender and tradition in rural India. Kiran Rao has crafted a film that resonates deeply, reminding us of Bollywood's potential to address significant social issues through powerful yet entertaining narratives. With stellar performances, memorable dialogue, and a compelling storyline, Lost Ladies deserves a wide audience and serves as a breath of fresh air in contemporary Indian cinema. This film is a must-watch for anyone interested in seeing a nuanced, entertaining, and meaningful exploration of women’s lives in modern society.