The global stage is set for a potential Indian triumph as the countdown to the 98th Academy Awards intensifies. Two prominent Indian films have successfully cleared the rigorous eligibility criteria for the prestigious Best Picture category, marking a significant strategic step towards Oscar recognition.
Strategic Qualification for the Global Stage
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) has unveiled the official list of 201 feature films eligible for the Best Picture race at the upcoming Oscars. According to industry publication Variety, this list includes two Indian cinematic ventures: Rishab Shetty's 'Kantara: A Legend - Chapter 1' and Anupam Kher's 'Tanvi The Great'.
Qualifying for this top category involves meeting stringent requirements beyond general entry rules. The Academy mandates that films must have completed a qualifying theatrical run and submitted a confidential RAISE (Representation and Inclusion Standards Entry) form. Crucially, eligible pictures must also satisfy at least two out of four Academy inclusion standards.
Furthermore, as per the rules, these films needed to complete a theatrical engagement in 10 of the top 50 U.S. markets within 45 days of their initial release in 2025. Both Indian productions have fulfilled all these conditions, positioning themselves as legitimate contenders among international cinema.
Spotlight on the Contenders
Produced by Hombale Films, 'Kantara: A Legend - Chapter 1' serves as a prequel to the hugely successful original. The film delves into the ancient origins of Daiva worship in the Tulunadu region, tracing its historical roots back to the fourth-century Kadamba dynasty. Rishab Shetty reprises his role, playing Berme, the guardian of the Kantara forest and its indigenous tribal communities.
The other eligible film, 'Tanvi The Great', marks the directorial debut of veteran actor Anupam Kher. It features Shubhangi in the lead role of Tanvi Raina. The narrative explores the intersecting themes of autism and the Indian Army, following a young girl who is inspired by her late father's military service and dreams of emulating his path. The film boasts a strong supporting cast including Anupam Kher, Jackie Shroff, Boman Irani, and Karan Tacker.
The Road to the Oscars
This development follows the Academy's earlier announcement in November 2025, which revealed the eligibility lists for categories like Best Documentary, Animated Feature, and International Feature Film. In total, 317 films are eligible across all Oscar categories this season.
The world will now keenly await the official nominations, which are scheduled to be revealed on January 22. The inclusion of these two Indian films in the Best Picture eligibility list is seen as a major achievement, reflecting the growing global outreach and strategic campaigning of Indian cinema. It brings the industry one step closer to its long-cherished dream of securing the ultimate accolade in filmmaking.
