Chhaya Kadam AKA 'Manju Maai' Says She Manifested Laapataa Ladies' Oscar Entry

"Extremely happy but not surprised," is how Chhaya Kadam, who played the beloved Manju Maai in Laapataa Ladies, describes her reaction to the film's selection for the Oscars 2025. The Kiran Rao-directed dramedy is representing India in the Best International Feature Film category for the Academy Awards. For Kadam, who was featured in two films (including All We Imagine As Light) competing for the Oscars, the nomination was like a significant reminder of her perseverance and dedication to her craft.

While Laapataa Ladies features numerous unforgettable characters -- Phool (Nitanshi Goel), Jaya (Pratibha Ranta), Deepak (Sparch Shrivastava), and Shyam Manohar (Ravi Kishan) among others -- Manju Maai's wisdom and 'no bullshit' humour stood out, making the film the heartwarming delight it is.

Laapataa Ladies At Oscars: Film Jury's Remark Raises Eyebrows

Speaking to News18 about the Oscar nomination, Kadam reacted, "My first reaction was that this was bound to happen. I was and still am extremely happy. But I knew deep down in my heart that this was inevitable." She recalled that she manifested the nomination as she had recently assured director-produced Kiran Rao a day before the announcement, "We are going to make it to the Oscars!"

The Film Federation of India picked Laapataa Ladies from a shortlist including several acclaimed films like Aattam and All We Imagine As Light. However, the all-male jury's selection of the film has sparked controversy as many believe that the judgement was blinded by a pigeonholed view of women-led films. Many critics also pointed out the jury's citation of the film's selection, which used patronising language.

“Indian women are a strange mixture of submission and dominance” the FFI says in its jury citation for LAAPATAA LADIES. You can’t make this shit up. pic.twitter.com/ySC372FZoW

— Poulomi Das (@PouloCruelo) September 23, 2024

Commenting on the controversy about the 13-member male-only jury, Chhaya Kadam said, "It’s important that we’ve film connoisseurs take these picks, irrespective of whether they’re male or female. It is more important to understand the film and there is nothing more important than that."

Chhaya Kadam's Journey In Cinema

Chhaya Kadam started her career on stage, debuting with Waman Kendre's Zulva. She transitioned to film in 2009, with her first unreleased movie Baimanus. Her early films include Mi Sindhutai Sapkal, Baboo Band Baaja, and Kuni Ghar Deta Ka Ghar. She made her Hindi film debut in Singham Returns.

Kadam's breakthrough came with Fandry in 2013, earning critical acclaim. She gained further recognition in Sairat (2016), where she learned Telugu for her role. Other notable films include Highway, Gour Hari Dastaan, and Nude, which faced controversy but received critical praise.

In 2018, she starred in Redu, Andhadhun, and Zelya. Her 2019 film Aatpadi Nights earned her a Filmfare nomination. She debuted on TV in Mere Sai and appeared in the web series Hutatma.

Her recent notable films include Gangubai Kathiawadi, Jhund, and Kaun Pravin Tambe? Her upcoming projects include Ghe Double, Alchemist, Pedigree, and Privacy.

Chhaya Kadam at Cannes 2024 for All We Imagine As Light

The year 2024 has been exceptionally special for Kadam, whose another film All We Imagine As Light won a historic Grand Prix award at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. The film made history as it broke India's 30-year drought at the Palme d'Or competition. Directed by Payal Kapadia, All We Imagine as Light is the first Indian film since 1994's Swaham to have run for this top honour. 

Chhaya’s presence at Cannes was not just a personal milestone but also a significant moment for Indian cinema. Her performance in the film drew attention and acclaim, highlighting her talent on an international stage. This moment became a testament to her hard work and dedication, marking an important chapter in her career and bringing Indian stories to a global audience.

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A post shared by Chhaya Kadam (@chhaya.kadam.75)

Kadam donned her late mother's saree and a traditional Maharashtrian nath, with flowers in her hair at the Cannes premiere. She shared what inspired her outfit, writing an emotional note on Instagram: "Mom, my dream of taking you on a plane remains unfulfilled. But today, I brought your saree and nose ring with me on a flight to the Cannes Film Festival, and that brings me some peace. Still, Mom, I wish you were here today to see all this.  Love you, Mom, and miss you a lot."