Tripura-based screenwriter Biplab Goswami has strongly denied allegations of plagiarism surrounding his film Laapataa Ladies, following online comparisons with the 2019 Arabic short film Burqa City. Social media users recently highlighted similarities in the plots of the two films, both involving mistaken identities due to veils. However, Goswami dismissed the claims as baseless and affirmed the originality of the story, characters, and dialogues.
“Our story is 100% original. Such accusations are not only false but also diminish the hard work of the entire team,” Goswami stated on his official Instagram page. He revealed that the concept, originally titled Two Brides, was first registered with the Screenwriters Association in July 2014. A detailed screenplay was later completed and submitted in 2018, winning recognition at the Cinestaan Storytellers Competition the same year.
Goswami emphasized that mistaken identity due to veils is a classical storytelling device used by legends like Shakespeare and Tagore. He said Laapataa Ladies applies this theme with unique characters and a distinct rural Indian setting. Directed by Kiran Rao and produced by Aamir Khan Productions, Laapataa Ladies released in March 2024 and is India’s official entry to the 2025 Oscars.
