In her return to the director’s chair after the emotionally charged Dhobi Ghat, Kiran Rao delves into the social fabric of the Hindi heartland with ‘Laapataa Ladies,’ shining a light on the pervasive patriarchy that lurks beneath the surface. The film unfolds in the fictional Nirmal Pradesh, resonating with the cultural nuances of the ‘cow belt,’ where gender discrimination is ingrained, and societal bias against assertive women is cultivated organically. Without resorting to overt activism, Rao skillfully peels back the layers of an unjust society, addressing the systemic invisibility of women with finesse.
Following the success of ’12th Fail,’ ‘Laapataa Ladies’ stands as another poignant example of embedding relevant social commentary within an engaging narrative. The film seamlessly weaves technical prowess with aesthetic brilliance, maintaining a consistent tonality and pace. The rustic ambiance feels authentic, with the dialect and costumes seamlessly blending into the narrative. The film’s performances are noteworthy, complemented by the enchanting compositions of Ram Sampath and the insightful verses penned by Divyanidhi Sharma, enriching the emotional tapestry of the story.
On the surface, ‘Laapataa Ladies’ explores the predicament of two newlywed brides whose lives take an unexpected turn during a train journey, symbolized by the swapping of their veils. Set in a time when mobile phones were novelties and coveted dowry items, the situational humor draws the audience in. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the narrative is far from simplistic. In this satire, irony emerges as a powerful tool, reminiscent of Brechtian devices, where a retired security guard in a vegetative state chants “Jaagte Raho” (stay awake) at pivotal moments in the film, adding layers of depth to the storytelling.
