While some viewers express optimism about the film, believing it holds a unique edge over the other 28 entries, others contend that the film ‘All We Imagine as Light’ could have been a more fitting selection.

Reports indicate that the jury was influenced by the film’s portrayal of women’s issues, which they found to be commendably executed.

“This year has been quite a good one, and we got some interesting mix of films. One thing about Laapataa Ladies that stood out was how it highlighted so many issues related to women in a very unique way. So many great films across the country come for selection, and as the jury, you would want your chosen film to get into the nomination. Also, we always look at chaos in a negative light but we fail to understand that there’s also a lot of beauty in it. The Indian social system, our relationships, and interactions have traditionally always had chaos. That is what the committee took note of and really enjoyed it,” said Jahnu Barua, part of the Jury which consisted of 13 members.

The esteemed filmmaker clarified that the decision was reached unanimously.

Barua also elaborated on why the other highly debated film, All We Imagine As Light, was not ultimately selected. He expressed his admiration for the film, noting that it was under consideration but fell short in technical execution. He further mentioned that when choosing a film to represent India on the international stage, various factors come into play, and technically, the film did not meet the jury’s expectations.

“The films that we want to be eligible, need to be made with the factor of representing the country. These factors automatically come in. Earlier, the films that we sent somewhere also lacked those aspects. We make the largest number of films, close to 2000 per year. But we haven’t yet figured out the Oscars. And that is a matter of concern for every countryman. What usually happens is that films in commercial arenas are made as per the demand and supply rules,” adds Barua.