Indian cinema is once again making its presence felt on the global stage as two films, Tanvi The Great and Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1, have secured eligibility for the prestigious Best Picture category at the 98th Academy Awards. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) recently released the official list of 201 films meeting all eligibility criteria, placing both Indian entries firmly in contention.
This follows the success of Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound, which earned a place among the Top 15 shortlisted films in the International Feature Film category. With the Oscars nominations scheduled for announcement on 22 January, anticipation is building for a historic moment in Indian cinema.
Tanvi The Great, directed by actor-filmmaker Anupam Kher, tells the story of Tanvi Raina, portrayed by Shubhangi, a young girl inspired by her late father’s service in the Indian Army. The film sensitively explores themes of autism, resilience, and patriotism, highlighting Tanvi’s journey to honour her father’s legacy. Produced by Anupam Kher Studios in association with the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and distributed globally by Excel Entertainment, the film combines emotional storytelling with a focus on representation and social impact.
On the other hand, Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1, produced by Hombale Films, delves into the ancient Daiva worship of Tulunadu, tracing traditions back to the fourth-century Kadamba dynasty. Rishab Shetty stars as Berme, the protector of the Kantara forest and its indigenous people, in a narrative that blends mythology, history, and cultural identity. Distributed internationally by AA Films, the film has been praised for its epic storytelling and celebration of India’s regional heritage.
Both films reflect a strategic push by Indian filmmakers toward global recognition, aiming to bring culturally rich and socially significant stories to international audiences. Their inclusion among the 201 eligible films for the Oscars signifies growing acknowledgment of India’s diverse cinematic landscape.
With multiple Indian entries gaining traction in the Oscar race this year, the 98th Academy Awards could mark another milestone in the country’s journey on the global cinematic stage. As the film fraternity waits for the official nominations, the world watches with keen interest, highlighting India’s rising influence in international cinema
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