Jaipur (Rajasthan) [India], March 10: Actress Nitanshi Goel’s remarkable journey from debutant to Best Actress in a Leading Role (Female) was celebrated at the prestigious IIFA 2025 awards. The actress, who made her mark with her debut in Kiran Rao’s critically acclaimed Laapataa Ladies, was overwhelmed with emotions as she accepted the award for her portrayal of Phool Kumari in the film.
Bollywood legends Boman Irani and Bobby Deol presented Nitanshi with the honor, and she wowed the audience in a stunning ruby-red gown. However, it was her heartfelt acceptance speech that truly touched the hearts of everyone present.
Speaking to ANI about her win, Nitanshi expressed her surprise, saying, “I wasn’t expecting this. I was hoping Laapataa Ladies would win big, but I didn’t think I would win myself. The other nominees were incredible, and I’m a huge fan of all of them. I’m truly overwhelmed by the love I’ve received.”
When asked about the emotional moment when she couldn’t hold back tears, Nitanshi shared, “It’s become a thing now. Honestly, I couldn’t stop crying because winning this award is a dream come true for every actor, and it’s finally come true for me. I’m just so grateful.”
The actress dedicated her win to her mother, the fans who embraced both her and her character Phool, and to the entire team of Laapataa Ladies, especially director Kiran Rao and actor Aamir Khan. “I dedicate this to my mom, to everyone who loved Phool, to those who accepted me–Nitanshi and Phool. A special thanks to Kiran ma’am, Aamir sir, and the entire team of Laapataa Ladies. And of course, the universe for making this happen,” she added.
After receiving the award, Nitanshi shared her overwhelming emotions: “The first thing I did was cry and try to put together a speech because I couldn’t believe it was happening. Then I gave my mom a big hug, and a huge hug to Kiran ma’am. It was all just happy tears.”
Looking ahead, Nitanshi spoke with excitement about working with Bollywood’s biggest stars. “There are so many people on my list, but Shah Rukh sir tops the chart, followed by Kartik Aaryan. It would be amazing to work with any of them,” she said.
Laapataa Ladies (released internationally as Lost Ladies) is a 2023 Hindi-language comedy-drama directed by Kiran Rao. The film, which also stars Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, and Ravi Kishan, tells the story of two newlywed brides mistakenly exchanged during a train ride to their husbands’ homes. Though it didn’t make it to the longlist for the Best International Feature category at the 97th Academy Awards, Laapataa Ladies continues to receive worldwide acclaim.