The debate around Laapataa Ladies’ selection as India’s official Oscar entry over Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine As Light is still in full swing. Actor Chhaya Kadam, who stars in both projects, has mixed feelings.

“There are so many rules and regulations behind this selection, one can’t really say. What do we know about what went behind (the scenes)? Inke niyamon ke beech mein kya hi padna,” she says, adding, “As an artiste, I aim to do good work, baaki cheezon par bolne aur bataane wale bahut log hain.”

Although All We Imagine As Light was shortlisted by France, Jacques Audiard’s Spanish-language musical crime comedy Emilia Perez, was selected as their official entry for the Oscars. “Jaani toh chahiye thi India se, par ab main kya hi bolun? I had an expectation, I won’t lie,” Kadam shares.

But she can’t help but feel grateful for the doors the film opened for her: “This film has received so much love at Cannes (Film Festival) also (by winning the Grand Prix). Yeh film mujhe duniya ghuma rahi hai. I am attending festivals in different countries.”