Two Indian Films Enter Best Picture Eligibility List for 98th Academy Awards

Indian Cinema Gains Global Spotlight as Kantara and Tanvi The Great Qualify for Oscars Race

Indian cinema has made a notable mark in the global awards circuit as two Indian films have entered the eligibility list for the Best Picture category at the 98th Academy Awards . As anticipation builds ahead of the Oscars, the development reflects a renewed and strategic effort by Indian filmmakers to gain recognition at the world’s most prestigious film honours.

Indian Films in the Best Picture Eligibility List

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) has confirmed that 201 feature films are eligible for consideration in the Best Picture category this year. Among these are two Indian productions— Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 , directed by Rishab Shetty , and Tanvi The Great , helmed by Anupam Kher .

The eligibility list, first reported by Variety , places both films among global contenders vying for a nomination in cinema’s most closely watched category.

Stringent Eligibility Rules by the Academy

The Academy has clarified that Best Picture eligibility goes well beyond standard submission requirements. Films must complete a qualifying theatrical run in at least 10 of the top 50 US markets within 45 days of their initial 2025 release .

In addition, filmmakers are required to submit a confidential Representation and Inclusion Standards Entry (RAISE) form and meet at least two of the four inclusion standards defined by AMPAS. These criteria focus on on-screen representation, creative leadership, industry access, and audience development, reflecting the Academy’s evolving emphasis on diversity and inclusion.

Indian Cinema’s Growing Global Positioning

By meeting these demanding benchmarks, the two Indian films have successfully positioned themselves for international visibility. Earlier, in November 2025, the Academy had announced 317 eligible films across multiple categories, including Documentary Feature, Animated Feature, and International Feature Film.

The presence of Indian titles in the Best Picture eligibility list highlights a broader shift—Indian cinema is increasingly aligning itself with global exhibition norms, release strategies, and compliance frameworks , rather than limiting itself to domestic or regional recognition.

Themes and Narratives of the Eligible Films

Produced by Hombale Films , Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 delves into the spiritual and cultural origins of Daiva worship in Tulunadu , tracing its historical roots to the Kadamba dynasty , which dates back to the fourth century CE. Rishab Shetty portrays Berme , a guardian figure protecting forest-dwelling communities, blending mythology, ecology, and folklore.

Tanvi The Great , on the other hand, explores themes of autism, resilience, and military inspiration . The film follows a young woman driven by the legacy of her late father’s service in the Indian Army. Its ensemble cast includes Jackie Shroff , Boman Irani , and Karan Tacker .

Why This Matters

While eligibility does not guarantee a nomination, making it to the Best Picture contention list is itself a significant milestone. It signals growing confidence among Indian filmmakers to compete on the global stage, both creatively and strategically.