New Delhi, April 1 -- Laapataa Ladies, India's official entry for Oscar 2025, has been accused of copying an Arabic film called Burqa City. The Hindi movie, directed by Kiran Rao, received rave reviews upon its release. It impressed both critics and audiences alike, winning numerous awards.

Burqa City is a 20-minute Arabic-language comedy directed by Fabrice Bracq. Set in a Middle Eastern city, it follows a young couple whose argument leads to mistaken identity when the husband brings home the wrong burqa-clad woman.

The film cleverly blends humour with social commentary by exploring relationships, religion and societal norms. Produced in France, the short film was released in 2019.

The accusation against the Aamir Khan production come...