At the25th International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards, held in Jaipur on March 9, 2025, Kiran Rao’s critically acclaimed filmLaapataa Ladiesemerged as the standout achiever, securing an impressive10 awardsacross several major categories. The film’s remarkable sweep was a testament to its artistic strength, compelling storytelling, and innovative narrative approach.
The Story That Won Hearts
Laapataa Ladiesrevolves around the unexpected exchange of two brides traveling by train, leading to a captivating exploration of identity, societal norms, and rural Indian life. The film garnered praise not only for its insightful script and engaging direction but also for its heartfelt and authentic depiction of women’s experiences in contemporary rural India.
Dominating the Awards Night
Among its ten IIFA wins,Laapataa Ladiestook home several prestigious awards, including:
- Best Film
- Best Director (Kiran Rao)
- Best Actress (Nitanshi Goel)
- Best Supporting Actor (Ravi Kishan)
- Best Original Story (Biplab Goswami)
- Best Screenplay (Sneha Desai)
- Best Editing (Jabeen Merchant)
- Best Music Direction (Ram Sampath)
- Best Lyrics (Prashant Pandey for the song “Sajni”)
- Star Debut of the Year – Female (Pratibha Ranta)
These accolades underscored the film’s comprehensive strength—from storytelling and performances to technical finesse.
A Game-Changer for Indian Cinema
Laapataa Ladiesmarked Kiran Rao’s triumphant return as director, reaffirming her vision of cinema that both entertains and initiates thoughtful conversations. The film’s overwhelming success at IIFA signals a shift in Indian audiences’ taste towards films that blend social relevance with mainstream appeal.
Industry analysts view this recognition as a significant cultural moment, highlighting how stories rooted in authenticity and relatable narratives can find widespread acclaim without relying on conventional star-driven formulas.
