Laapataa Ladies vs Burqa City: A Case of Inspiration or Plagiarism?
- Satish Sharma
- Apr 5
- 3 min read
Kiran Rao’s directorial comeback, Laapataa Ladies, has garnered critical acclaim for its subtle satire, rural storytelling, and strong performances. However, amidst the praise, the film has now landed in the middle of a growing storm — accusations of plagiarism. Netizens and cinephiles online are drawing parallels between Laapataa Ladies and a 2020 French-Arabic film titled Burqa City, directed by Fabrice Bracq.
The allegations began surfacing on X (formerly Twitter) after sharp-eyed viewers noticed uncanny similarities in the plot, characters, and visual cues between the two films. The central theme in both movies revolves around women donning identical burqas in a highly patriarchal setting, leading to mistaken identities and a satirical take on society and gender roles.
What is Burqa City?
Burqa City is a French short film that takes a humorous yet critical look at life in an oppressive society where women are indistinguishable under the veil. It uses satire to highlight themes of control, freedom, and identity — themes that resonate heavily with Laapataa Ladies.
Where the Similarities Lie in Laapata Ladies
Several screenshots and clips from both films are now being compared online, with users pointing out:
The use of burqas to highlight identity confusion
A lost woman being mistaken for someone else
A husband searching for his veiled wife in a crowded, rural-like setting
Subtle comedic undertones aimed at patriarchal systems
While Laapataa Ladies expands the story into a full-length feature rooted in Indian culture, many argue that the core concept bears striking resemblance to Bracq’s short film.
The Internet Reacts
Social media erupted with reactions, ranging from disbelief to satire. Some users expressed disappointment, saying that a film allegedly lifted from a lesser-known international short was being celebrated and even considered for India’s Oscar submission.
“We send copies to the Oscars and end up with egg on our face,” wrote one user, summing up the sentiment of many who feel the global film community might see through such ‘inspirations.’
Others defended the film, suggesting that borrowing ideas is not new in cinema, and execution is what truly matters.
Inspiration vs. Plagiarism: The Fine Line
Indian cinema has often walked a blurred line between inspiration and imitation. From Ghajini's parallels with Memento to Partner’s uncanny resemblance to Hitch, Bollywood has a long history of ‘reinterpreting’ international films — sometimes with permission, often without.
In Laapataa Ladies' case, there’s no official word yet from the filmmakers or from Fabrice Bracq himself. If indeed the film was inspired by Burqa City, a formal acknowledgment could help ease the growing criticism.
The Bigger Picture: Oscars and Originality
The controversy raises an important question — are we doing justice to Indian creativity when we submit such films to international platforms like the Oscars? In a global era of easy access and instant comparisons, the lack of originality can quickly damage a country's cinematic credibility.
Whether Laapataa Ladies is a creative homage or a questionable copy remains to be seen. What’s clear is this: Indian audiences are becoming more aware, more critical, and more global in their viewing. And as storytellers, filmmakers must tread carefully — because in the age of the internet, nothing stays hidden for long.
📌 What do you think — inspired or plagiarised? Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag us on Instagram at @thatlazycinephile.
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