Mahavatar Narsimha enters Oscars 2026 list, marking a big win for Indian animation

Mahavatar Narsimha, directed by Ashwin Kumar and produced by Kleem Productions in association with Hombale Films, has taken a major leap on the global stage. After impressing audiences and performing strongly at the Indian box office, the film has officially entered the eligibility list for the 98th Academy Awards. It will now compete for a nomination at the Oscars 2026 alongside major international titles like KPop Demon Hunters, Zootopia 2, and Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle.

Also Read: Mahavatar Narsimha roars to glory, becomes India’s biggest animated hit ever

Meets Academy Rules for Best Animated Feature

According to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, an animated feature must be over 40 minutes long, with at least 75% of its runtime comprising animation. The film must also complete a qualifying theatrical run in the United States, screening publicly for at least seven consecutive days in one of six major metropolitan areas.

Mahavatar Narsimha has successfully fulfilled these requirements. With recent rule changes, eligible animated films can now also submit for the Best International Feature category. The film qualifies on both counts, strengthening its chances as it moves forward in the Oscar race.

Competing With Top Global Animated Films

The Academy’s eligibility list features a diverse slate of international and animated projects. Alongside Mahavatar Narsimha are notable entries such as Arco, The Bad Guys 2, Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc, Dog of God, Elio, Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie, Light of the World, and The Twits. This positions the Indian film among some of the most anticipated global releases of the year.

A Growing Indian Franchise With Global Ambition

Mahavatar Narsimha is only the beginning of an ambitious cinematic universe. The franchise plans include multiple future installments:

• Mahavatar Parshuram (2027)
• Mahavatar Raghunandan (2029)
• Mahavatar Dwarkadhish (2031)
• Mahavatar Gokulananda (2033)
• Mahavatar Kalki – Part 1 (2035)
• Mahavatar Kalki – Part 2 (2037)

Director Ashwin Kumar describes the franchise as India’s homegrown response to Hollywood superhero sagas. He emphasized that while budget limitations exist, Indian creativity and innovation—what he calls “jugaad”—will bridge the gap over time. “By the seventh film, we will figure it out,” he shared confidently.

Also Read: Mahavatar: Vicky Kaushal to take Ranbir Kapoor’s path of discipline for Lord Parashurama saga- Reports

Oscar Timeline Ahead

The official nominations for the 98th Academy Awards will be announced on January 22, 2026. The grand ceremony is scheduled for March 15, 2026, at the iconic Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood and will be broadcast live on ABC.