Oscars 2025: India's 'Kantara: Chapter 1', 'Tanvi The Great' join eligible films for Best Picture race
Mumbai, January 9
With the countdown continuing toward the 98th Academy Awards, Indian cinema appears to have made another strike, inching closer to bringing home the Oscar this year.
Two Indian films - Rishab Shetty's 'Kantara: A Legend - Chapter 1' and Anupam Kher's 'Tanvi The Great' have taken a strategic approach toward global recognition, joining the list of 201 feature films that are eligible for consideration at the 98th Oscars.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) revealed the 201 eligible films that directly qualify for the prestigious Best Picture race, according to Variety. As per the Academy, the eligible films for Best Picture met all the additional eligibility requirements beyond those for general entry.
This also includes theatrical runs and the submission of a confidential Academy Representation and Inclusion Standards Entry (RAISE) form.
The films were also required to meet at least two of the four Academy inclusion standards and complete a qualifying theatrical engagement in 10 of the top 50 US markets within 45 days of their initial release in 2025, Variety added.
Having met all the requirements, both the 'Kantara' prequel and 'Tanvi The Great' have positioned themselves as potential contenders on the global platform.
Earlier in November 2025, the Academy revealed the films eligible for Best Documentary, Animated Feature, and International Feature Film, with the figures totalling 317 across all categories.
The Academy Award nominations will be revealed on January 22.
Produced by Hombale Films, 'Kantara: Chapter 1' revolves around the origins of Daiva worship in Tulunadu, tracing its roots back to the fourth-century Kadamba dynasty. Rishab Shetty plays Berme, the protector of the Kantara forest and its tribal communities.
'Tanvi The Great', which is directed by actor Anupam Kher, features Shubhangi in the lead role of Tanvi Raina. The film explores themes of autism and the Indian Army. Shubhangi plays a young girl inspired by her late father's army service, as she dreams of following in his footsteps.
The film also stars Anupam Kher, Jackie Shroff, Boman Irani, and Karan Tacker in key roles.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Eligible is one thing, but getting nominated is a whole different battle. The Oscars have a very specific taste. While I'm hopeful, let's be realistic – the competition is global and fierce. Still, a step in the right direction for sure.
'Tanvi The Great' tackling autism and army life is such a unique and heart-touching combination. Shubhangi is a brilliant actor. Hope the Academy voters see the emotional depth and social relevance of our stories. Jai Hind!
The strategic release in US markets shows Hombale Films and the team are playing the game smartly. You need that visibility. Kantara's rooted storytelling with global production values could be our ticket. The buzz is real!
As someone who loved the original Kantara, I'm thrilled to hear about the prequel getting this platform. The folklore and music were incredible. Fingers crossed it gets the recognition it deserves on the world stage.
While I'm happy, I hope our focus remains on making great films for our audience first. Oscar validation is great, but it shouldn't become the sole purpose. Let the art speak for itself. Best of luck to both teams!
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