In a significant development for Indian cinema, two highly anticipated films have officially entered the race for Hollywood's most prestigious accolade. Rishab Shetty's 'Kantara Chapter 1' and Anurag Basu's 'Tanvi The Great' have been included in the eligibility list for the Best Picture category at the 98th Academy Awards, scheduled for 2026. This early qualification marks a major milestone for both projects and underscores the growing global ambition of the Indian film industry.
Details of the Oscar Eligibility Announcement
The news was confirmed through the official Oscars eligibility list, which tracks films that have met the initial criteria for contention. For a film to be eligible, it must have a qualifying theatrical release in Los Angeles County and meet other specific requirements set by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS). The inclusion of 'Kantara Chapter 1' and 'Tanvi The Great' at this stage indicates a strategic and planned awards campaign is already underway for both Indian productions.
'Kantara Chapter 1' is the prequel to the 2022 blockbuster phenomenon 'Kantara,' which was a cultural and critical sensation across India. Directed by and starring Rishab Shetty, the original film won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Kannada. The prequel is one of the most awaited films in Indian cinema and its Oscar eligibility announcement has generated tremendous excitement among fans and industry observers alike.
'Tanvi The Great' marks the directorial return of Anurag Basu, known for films like 'Barfi!' and 'Life in a...Metro.' This musical drama features a stellar cast including Konkona Sen Sharma, Parineeti Chopra, and Aditya Roy Kapur. The film's scale and genre make it a unique contender aiming for international recognition.
Strategic Campaigns and Global Ambitions
The early entry into the Oscars eligibility list is not a matter of chance. It represents a calculated move by the films' producers and distributors. Typically, such early listings are the result of planned theatrical runs in the United States, specifically in Los Angeles, to meet the Academy's strict criteria. This suggests that the teams behind both movies are investing in comprehensive For Your Consideration (FYC) campaigns, which include screenings for Academy members, promotional events, and targeted marketing.
This proactive approach mirrors the successful strategy behind films like 'RRR' and 'The Elephant Whisperers,' which brought Indian cinema historic Oscar wins. By entering the eligibility list now, these films position themselves for a long and sustained campaign leading up to the nomination announcements in early 2026.
Implications for Indian Cinema on the World Stage
The dual entry signifies a bold new phase for Indian filmmakers. No longer content with just domestic success, major productions are now being conceptualized and marketed with an eye on global awards from their inception. The inclusion of a major commercial prequel like 'Kantara Chapter 1' alongside a large-scale musical drama like 'Tanvi The Great' showcases the diverse storytelling from India that is seeking worldwide acclaim.
While being on the eligibility list is just the first step in a long journey toward a potential Oscar nomination, it is a crucial one. It places these films on the radar of critics, awards pundits, and, most importantly, the voting members of the Academy. The news has already sparked conversations about the potential for Indian cinema to secure a spot in the coveted Best Picture category, a feat no Indian production has achieved yet.
The road to the Oscars 2026 is long, but the starting gun has been fired. The journey of 'Kantara Chapter 1' and 'Tanvi The Great' will be closely watched as a bellwether for the international aspirations of the Indian film industry.
