Sparsh Shrivastava, Pratibha Ranta, and Nitanshi Goel share BTS anecdotes from Laapataa Ladies and their experience working with Kiran Rao and Aamir Khan on In The Ring with Filmfare

Catch Sparsh Shrivastava, Pratibha Rana, and Nitanshi Goel at their candid best on In The Ring with Filmfare, now available to stream on Filmfare’s YouTube channel

The supremely talented star cast of the critically acclaimed and Oscar-nominated movie Laapataa Ladies, Sparsh Shrivastava, Pratibha Ranta, and Nitanshi Goel, graced the latest episode of In The Ring with Filmfare, streaming now on Filmfare’s YouTube channel. Hosted by Jitesh Pillai, Editor-in-Chief, Filmfare, this engaging talk show offers fans a glimpse into the lives and careers of some of the most sought-after talents from the film and OTT industries, all in front of a live audience that elevates the immersive experience.

An award-winning comedy-drama, Laapataa Ladies instilled a sense of pride among Indians with its official entry for the 2025 Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category, representing a landmark milestone in Indian cinema. Besides its heartwarming yet thought-provoking story, the movie garnered praise galore for the exemplary performances of Sparsh Shrivastava, Pratibha Ranta, and Nitanshi Goel, who brought the film to life on screen. In a candid chat with the host, the trio spilled the beans on their shooting experience with director Kiran Rao, shared behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the film, expressed their excitement for its prestigious Oscar nomination, and much more.

Sharing their reactions to the Oscar nomination, Sparsh recalled, “I was in Agra when I got the news. My phone was buzzing with missed calls, and when I finally answered, our casting director, said, ‘Brother, we’re in the Oscars!’ I still can’t process it and think I’ll believe it fully when I’m there.” Pratibha added, “I was completely surprised to learn the big news and didn’t know how to react.” Nitanshi shared, “When Kiran ma’am confirmed it in our WhatsApp group, and we all celebrated with dancing emojis”

Reflecting on his experience working with a female filmmaker for the first time, Sparsh remarked, “For me, it was a different experience working with a female director. There’s a hidden innocence and a feminine touch to every approach. I believe I was able to portray Deepak authentically, only because of Kiran ma’am.”

Pratibha also recalled her experience working with like Sanjay Leela Bhansali in Heera Mandi. She expressed, “While working with Sanjay sir, I learnt and observed the dedication of everyone on set. Learning from their passion was invaluable. Working with him was inspiring; the scenes always evolved differently from my initial vision. This experience influenced my transition from Laapataa Ladies to Heera Mandi by reinforcing my belief in being a director’s actor.”

Reminiscing about some BTS moments from the sets of Laapataa Ladies, Nitanshi revealed, “During the shoot, I used to feel nervous and often sought validation from Kiran ma’am. She would reassure me by sharing Aamir Sir’s positive feedback, making me feel comfortable, and in turn, helping me improve my performance. So, I can say, Aamir sir was virtually with us throughout the journey.”

Talking about Aamir Khan’s involvement during the film’s production process, Sparsh highlighted, “Aamir Khan came to the set on the last day of the shoot. But he has always been very supportive, casual, and friendly.” When asked who he would cast as Deepak in Laapataa Ladies, Sparsh quipped, “I would love to cast Aamar sir as Deepak if gotten the chance to do so in an imaginary world.”