In a landmark achievement for Indian cinema, two major productions have officially entered the race for Hollywood's highest honour. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) has unveiled the list of films eligible for the Best Picture category at the upcoming 2025 Oscars, and it features two prominent Indian titles: 'Kantara Chapter 1' and 'Tanvi The Great'.
A Prestigious List of Contenders
The Academy confirmed that a total of 201 films have qualified for consideration in the coveted Best Picture category for the 2025 ceremony. This eligibility is not automatic; each film must meet a stringent set of additional criteria beyond the general entry requirements for the Oscars. The fact that both Indian films have successfully navigated this process marks a significant step, placing them on the same preliminary list as the year's biggest international contenders.
Spotlight on the Indian Contenders
The first film, 'Kantara Chapter 1', is the much-anticipated prequel to the blockbuster phenomenon 'Kantara'. Directed by and starring Rishab Shetty, and produced by the powerhouse Hombale Films, this film aims to delve deeper into the mythical origins that captivated audiences nationwide. Its qualification signals the global industry's recognition of its production scale and cinematic ambition.
The second film, 'Tanvi The Great', features veteran actor Anupam Kher in a pivotal role. While specific plot details are closely guarded, its inclusion on the Oscars eligibility list suggests a narrative with universal themes and high production values designed to resonate with the Academy's international voting body.
What This Means for Indian Cinema
Qualifying for the eligibility list is just the first hurdle in the long and competitive Oscars journey. The next steps involve vigorous campaigning to secure nominations from the Academy's thousands of voters. However, this dual qualification is a powerful testament to the growing ambition and production caliber of the Indian film industry.
It demonstrates a strategic move by Indian filmmakers to create content that meets both domestic entertainment standards and the nuanced artistic benchmarks often recognized by international awards bodies. This development is likely to boost the global visibility of Indian cinema and inspire more filmmakers to aim for the global stage.
The official announcement was made by the Academy on 09 January 2026. Film enthusiasts and industry watchers will now keenly await the official nomination announcements, hoping to see these Indian titles progress to the next round. Their presence on this list is, without doubt, a historic moment worth celebrating.
