After the Film Federation of India announced Missing Ladies as the country’s official entry to the upcoming Oscars, the team of the film is experiencing different emotions. In an exclusive conversation with India Today, lead actor Sparsh Srivastava spoke about how initially it all felt unreal to him. And as the reality set in, he got very emotional. Sparsh also spoke about how superstar Aamir Khan once praised Kiran Rao for her restrained acting in the film.

“Of course, this is just the first step and there is still a long way to go for the nominations. But I really feel that our film has a chance. The kind of story we have and the acting is top-notch. Also, Kiran ma’am and our DOP Vikas Naulakha have made the film beautifully. It has touched many hearts and now we are all hoping for great performances so that we can reach the finals,” Sparsh told India Today. He also added with a smile, however, that the team is already discussing what they will wear on the red carpet.

When asked what he thinks made the film so loved, the actor said, “Women and their representation is our USP. I remember during one of our script reading sessions, Ravi Kishan sir said that the writing and characterisation is incredible. Even today, 70 to 80 per cent of our women live in rural areas. For them, their kitchen and their home is their only identity. It is difficult for them to find themselves and their dreams. From childhood, they are taught that their role is to get married and keep their husbands happy. Through our film, we have told these women that there is great joy in empowering themselves. I think this fact has touched many hearts.”

Sparsh Srivastava spoke about the time he spent on the sets of the film and how it was a learning experience for him. He also recalled how superstar and the film’s producer Aamir Khan praised him. “We were at an event where I was sitting with Aamir sir and Kiran ma’am. The film was edited by then, and they told me how I transformed Deepak’s character from what was written on paper. Honestly, I didn’t believe it at first, but they have talked about it in other interviews as well. They liked my work and it’s a big achievement for me. They felt I could make a well-written character even better, and that has given me the confidence to keep doing it, and has made every filmmaker say the same about my work,” he shared.

While the team enjoyed the party in Mumbai, Sparsh Srivastava is currently in his hometown Agra. He said that he is sad that he could only be a part of the celebrations virtually, but he is planning to have a good time again once he returns.

He said, “Every little happiness becomes bigger when you have your loved ones around you. This is what is happening with me. When my film released in theatres, especially here in Agra, it was as big a deal for them as the Oscars. Now they are even more excited about this new achievement. Even my relatives and extended family are very happy to join me in celebrating this big news.”

Lastly, the 27-year-old actor shared two moments during the film’s release that impacted him deeply. “Firstly, when the trailer released, I remember I had a fever that day but as soon as I saw the amazing trailer, I became completely healthy and fine,” he laughed. Talking about the second moment, he suddenly felt overwhelmed by the wave of love from all sides, “I am so happy that I am still getting love today, and I will make sure I keep getting it always.”

The missing ladies also include Nitanshi Goyal, Pratibha Ranta and Ravi Kishan.