Oscar 2026: Kantara Chapter 1, Tanvi The Great among Indian films in Best Picture contention

The Academy has unveiled the eligibility list for the 98th Academy Awards, featuring 317 feature films from across the world. Among them, 201 titles qualify for the coveted Best Picture category. Making India proud, four Indian productions have earned a place on this prestigious list - Rishab Shetty’s Kantara: A Legend - Chapter 1, Anupam Kher’s Tanvi The Great, M Sasikumar’s Tourist Family, and the animated mythological spectacle Mahavatar Narasimha.

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Additionally, Radhika Apte-starrer Sister Midnight has also secured eligibility, further strengthening India’s presence.

Global Heavyweights Also in the Race

Sharing space with these Indian films are several high-profile international titles, including Avatar: Fire and Ash, The Conjuring: Last Rites, Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning, Superman, and Wicked: For Good.

As outlined by the Academy, films must meet specific criteria to qualify - including a theatrical release in at least one of six major US metropolitan areas between January 1 and December 31, 2025, a minimum seven-day consecutive run at the same venue, and a runtime exceeding 40 minutes.

Hombale Films Marks a Milestone Moment

Celebrating Kantara: Chapter 1’s inclusion, Hombale Films shared a heartfelt note: "Rooted in our culture, driven by divinity. Proud and privileged as #KantaraChapter1 enters the Best Picture contending race at the #Oscars Academy Awards 2026." (sic)

The makers of Mahavatar Narasimha echoed similar sentiments, stating: "A sacred journey born from faith, glory, and eternal belief. Truly honoured and elated as #MahavatarNarsimha enters Best Picture contention at the #Oscars Academy Awards 2026." (sic)

Anupam Kher Calls It a ‘Huge Triumph’ 

Reacting to Tanvi The Great’s recognition, director Anupam Kher expressed deep gratitude and emotion. Calling the achievement a milestone in itself, he wrote that being featured in the list “is already a huge triumph” for the team.

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

He added, "Oscar…. Best film….shortlist…. Tanvi The Great!!! Every year thousands of films from all over the world are sent for the most prestigious film awards #OSCARS! Millions of people in the movie industry work very hard to get that initial nod and appreciation by the @theacademy!" (sic) 

With Indian stories echoing across genres and languages, the Oscars eligibility nod signals a moment of global attention, where rooted narratives, mythic visions and heartfelt cinema stand poised to speak to the world.