I have always enjoyed movies that are both entertaining and thought-provoking, and “Laapataa Ladies” or “Lost Ladies” does exactly that. Directed by Kiran Rao and produced by Aamir Khan, this Bollywood film is a mix of comedy and drama that highlights old traditions and how they affected women’s lives.
Released in 2023 “Lost Ladies” is set in 2001 in a fictional place called Nirmal Pradesh. The story is about Deepak, a farmer who is traveling home with his new wife, Phool Kumari. They are on a crowded train with many other newlywed couples. In his tradition, all the brides wear the same wedding clothes and cover their faces with a veil. At that time, women had very little freedom and were expected to always stay behind the veil, both physically and socially. Late at night, Deepak wakes up just as the train reaches his stop. In a rush and due to the darkness, he mistakenly takes the wrong bride with him. Meanwhile, Kumari is left behind on the train with another groom, Pradeep.
What makes Kumari’s situation even harder is that she doesn’t even know the name of her husband’s place. She has no idea where she is supposed to go, adding to her confusion and fear. She is stranded in an unfamiliar place, trying to figure out what to do next. This mix-up leads to many funny and emotional moments.
The movie also shows how women had little control over their own lives. Another character, Pushpa, who Deepak accidentally brings, dreams of studying agriculture but her parents marry her off instead. They sell their land to pay for her dowry, showing how little choice women had in their futures.
In “Laapataa Ladies,” Nitanshi Goel portrays Phool Kumari, and Pratibha Ranta plays Jaya Tripathi Singh, also known as Pushpa Rani. Ravi Kishan takes on the role of Sub-Inspector Shyam Manohar, while Chhaya Kadam plays Manju Maai.
What makes “Lost Ladies” special is how it talks about serious issues in a simple and interesting way. It highlights the challenges women faced in gaining freedom and making their own choices. Even though the story takes place in 2001, its message is still important today.
More than just a story about two lost brides, “Lost Ladies” is about self-discovery, courage and breaking free from old traditions. It is a heartwarming film that will make you laugh, think and appreciate freedom. I highly recommend watching it.
Edited by Stuti Khadka and Jeremy Ford.
