Social media has been ablaze ever since the Academy announced the shortlisted films for the Oscar race. India’s official entry “Rapata Ladies” did not make it to the competition, but Britain’s leading Hindi film “Santosh” advanced to the competition. This led to a debate over the selection of films that India submits to the Oscars each year. Actor Shahana Goswami, who plays the lead role in the Sandhya Suri film, spoke exclusively to India Today Digital about the noise surrounding Lapataa Ladies’ exit.
The actor was asked about the conversation surrounding the Film Federation of India’s decision to choose director Kiran Rao over Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine As Light, which has won international acclaim. She said, “Honestly, I don’t know how the films are selected.I think it is decided by the NFDC (National Film Development Corporation), but I don’t even know the criteria or how to apply.As for the selection process for official entries. I don’t think I can comment.”
Talking about social media noise, the actor said it is part of who we are as humans and we need to comment on everything. “Everyone was very happy when the film was selected for India’s selection. I also think Lapatta Ladies did great. It may have been a slow burn in theaters, but It got really popular when it was released on OTT.I haven’t seen it yet, but as far as I know, it deals with a variety of themes and topics with humorous elements. I think all these conversations are just commentary from the media and people. ”
Shahana Goswami added that the conversation would have been different had Lapatta Ladies qualified and Santosh not participated. “The wind would have changed. But in reality, these things are very intangible. Even if someone asks me why Santosh was shortlisted, we I don’t know. But we’re all just grateful that we were able to take a step forward. But it doesn’t take away from anyone else’s journey. ” has been shortlisted, so just the fact that South Asian women and their bodies of work are being featured and talked about around the world is an achievement. It’s still a big win to get this far, because when it happens, more people see our films.”
The actor also thanked Academy members who watched and voted for her film. She added that several people reached out to the team about how much they loved the film. Shahana added that although it is a victory in itself to come this far, she believes Santosh can go ahead and win an Oscar.
PVR Pictures will bring Santosh to India next month.
