Chhaya Kadam doesn't mind all-male Oscar selection committee: Here's why
What's the story
The recent announcement of Laapataa Ladies as India's official entry for the Oscars has sparked a wave of criticism. Detractors have questioned the all-male jury's decision and the Film Federation of India's controversial description of Indian women in their selection document.
In response to this backlash, actor Chhaya Kadam, who played a significant role in the film, defended the selection process in an exclusive interview with News18 Showsha.
Defense
'Film samajhna zyaada zaroori hai...'
Kadam emphasized the importance of film understanding over gender representation in the jury.
She stated, "Hum film waale log hai. It's important that we've film connoisseurs take these picks, irrespective of whether they're male or female. Film samajhna zyaada zaroori hai aur usse zyaada important kuch nahi hai."
Meanwhile, some social media users have suggested that other films like All We Imagine As Light and Aattam were more deserving of the Oscar nomination than Laapataa Ladies.
Anticipation
Kadam expressed excitement for 'Laapataa Ladies' Oscar journey
Despite the controversy, Kadam expressed her excitement about Laapataa Ladies's Oscar journey.
She revealed that she'd initially expected her other film, All We Imagine... to secure an Oscar nomination as well.
However, she quickly added that Payal Kapadia, the director of All We Imagine..., was equally thrilled for Laapataa Ladies.
"Payal is a very different woman. Yes, she wished that her film would make it but she's very happy about Laapataa Ladies too since it's also an Indian film."
Selection process
'Laapataa Ladies's selection was a unanimous decision
The selection of Laapataa Ladies for the Oscars was a unanimous decision made by a 13-member committee led by Assamese director Jahnu Barua.
The film, produced by Aamir Khan and directed by Kiran Rao, will represent India in the best international film category at the Academy Awards.
Other films that made it to the top five from a list of 29 titles included Hindi film Srikanth, Tamil movies Vaazhai and Thangalaan, and Malayalam film Ullozhukku.
Gratitude
Director Rao expressed gratitude for 'Laapataa Ladies's selection
Rao expressed her deep honor and delight at her film's selection to represent India at the 97th Academy Awards.
In a statement, she said, "Cinema has always been a powerful medium to connect hearts, transcend boundaries, and ignite meaningful conversations."
"I hope that this film will resonate with audiences across the world, just as it has in India. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the selection committee and to everyone who believed in this film."