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Laapata Ladies, a film directed by Kiran Rao, has recently created a buzz among the cinephiles. Set in the fictional state of Nirmal Pradesh, which echoes Uttar Pradesh, 'Laapata Ladies' or 'Lost Ladies' primarily depicts how the veil, one of the chief constructs of patriarchal society, can make an auspicious occasion like a wedding go haywire.
People believe a veil can symbolize purity, innocence, and modesty. It can also represent the bride's transition from her old life to her new life as a wife. The veil also adds a sense of romance and mystery to the wedding ceremony.
Veils were worn in ancient Rome and Greece, where they were believed to protect brides from evil spirits. Newlywed Deepak (Sparsh Shrivastava) and Phool Kumari (Nitanshi Goel) journey to their village. However, they get married on an auspicious day and aren't the only newlyweds. The chaos amidst the veiled brides leads Deepak to leave the train with the wrong wife.
The film hereafter shows the perils that Deepak, his family, his lost wife Phool, and Jaya (Pratibha Ranta), aka Pushpa (the incorrect bride whom Deepak brought home), have to go through to resolve the crisis.
Patriarchy is a deeply rooted issue in our society, prevalent in every aspect of our society regardless of gender.
Despite the film's setting in 2001, the issues it addresses are still alarmingly relevant twenty-three years later. 'Laapata Ladies' doesn't stop at patriarchy; it also deftly illuminates other societal problems, such as corruption and the plight of farmers under government control.
Laapata Ladies barely slip. It gently lifts the veil from so many societal issues with humor and subtlety, so it feels like a giant warm hug.
A story that speaks to you makes you think and makes you smile at the same time. Even though the film is feminist in its approach, it never makes the men look bad, nor does it whitewash them. Rao created a stunning world where everyone and everything is gentle, much like the film's treatment and the place it's set in.
Take advantage of the opportunity to experience 'Laapata Ladies '. Watch it for its powerful message, compelling characters, and delightful humor.