The Nepal Weekly 
May 21, 2024
Reviewed by Prakriti Thapa
Laapataa Ladies directed by Kiran Rao and produced by Aamir Khan Productions and Kiran Rao’s Kindling Productions, is a delightful blend of drama and comedy that tackles societal issues with a deft touch. Released in theaters on March 1, 2024, and later on Netflix on April 26, the film has garnered an impressive 8.5 rating on IMDb, a testament to its powerful messaging and engaging storytelling.
Set in the fictional state of Nirmal Pradesh in 2001, the plot centers on the accidental swapping of two brides, Jaya (Pratibha Ratna) and Phool Kumari (Nitanshi Goel), on a train journey to their grooms’ homes. Jaya ends up with Deepak (Sparsh Srivastav), originally Phool Kumari’s groom, while Phool finds herself stranded at a railway station. This mishap sets off a chain of events that challenge societal norms and offer a refreshing perspective on topics like dowry, women’s empowerment, and the pursuit of dreams. The film’s authenticity shines through in its depiction of rural life. Scenes such as Deepak’s request for Phool to remove her jewellery on a crowded bus highlight the authentic fears and realities of not only rural India but also Nepal. Similarly, a poignant moment unfolds on the train when the mother of a groom (Pradeep) boastfully inquiries about the dowry received by another newlywed couple, flaunting the mobile phone, 15 tolas of gold, and 1 lakh 50 thousand cash bestowed upon her son. This powerful scene exposes the deep-rooted dowry system entrenched not only in rural India but also in the Terai region of Nepal. Phool finds herself lost and disoriented at the railway station and she meets Chhotu (Satendra Soni). The story of the humorous, kind, and hard-working Chhotu is a testimony of every person working hard to alleviate poverty. From the age of seven, he started working at Manju Maai’s tea stall. Despite being deprived of formal schooling himself, he is diligently earning to support his mother and siblings’ education allowing him to fulfill his sibling’s dreams. Through a supporting role, Chhotu’s humour and kindness have left an indelible mark on the audience’s hearts.
Likewise, Manju Maai (Chaaya Kadam) emerges as a beacon of empowerment, and an inspirational character. She not only liberates herself from her abusive and toxic husband but also is living life on her terms and conditions. There’s a scene where Manju Maai explains to Phool how the concept of ‘The girl from a respectable family’ is a societal fraud imposed upon young girls and women for centuries. When Phool confidently states that ‘The girl from a respectable family doesn’t return to her parents without a husband once she gets married’, and that her mother taught her everything she needs to do after marriage, Manju Maai responds in a straightforward manner: ‘Your mother has made you a fool; she taught you everything required to run a family, but not how to find your way back home when you get lost.’ Her words resonated deeply with me, as I could connect to this scene, having been raised in a Nepali household where girls are not allowed to go out without permission from male figures. This movie touched me profoundly by portraying the condition that persists in our society.
Every Cast of Laapataa Ladies delivers outstanding performances. Jaya’s character, in particular, shines as a symbol of hope and resilience. I loved how Jaya, a topper who yearned to study Agricultural Science in Dehradun, seized the opportunity after getting swabbed on the train to pursue her dream. Despite her mother’s warning to marry Pradeep, a man accused of killing his first wife for not conceiving a son, Jaya, an educated and opportunistic young woman, found a way to achieve her aspirations. Witnessing her triumph felt like achieving my dream. Using her wisdom and Deepak’s sister-in-law’s sketching art, she was able to find Phool who got lost in the rail station. It was heartwarming to see Jaya motivating Deepak’s sister-in-law to continue sketching and Amma to cook food of her preferences rather than solely cooking what men like.
The audience also got a taste of how a simple agenda can become a political agenda in times of election. Shyam Manohar, a police officer played by Ravi Kishan, added humour to the movie and drove the climax as he tried to understand Jaya’s background. It was satisfying to see him take Jaya’s side when her husband Pradeep beat her at the police station and help her achieve her dream. Deepak’s words ‘Don’t apologize for having a dream’ made me emotional as women are taught to compromise their dreams for family. The film’s soundtrack complements its narrative beautifully and the background enhances the film’s mood without overshadowing the dialogues or performances. Laapataa Ladies is a complete package, smashing patriarchy and celebrating sisterhood at its peak. It’s a celebration of sisterhood, self-discovery, and the courage to challenge societal norms. Kiran Rao’s brilliant direction, coupled with the fabulous acting and a heartwarming storyline, makes this film a must-watch for anyone who loves drama infused with meaningful messages. For anyone who appreciates a well-crafted dramedy, Laapataa Ladies is a must-watch. It not only entertains but also leaves a lasting impact, making you reflect on the importance of dreams, resilience, and the power of women supporting women.
