Oscars 2026: Indian cinema has achieved a significant milestone as two homegrown productions earn their place in the race for the Academy Awards’ most coveted honor. With the 98th Oscars approaching, Rishab Shetty’s ‘Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1’ and Anupam Kher’s ‘Tanvi the Great’ have officially entered the Best Picture conversation, marking a proud moment for the Indian film industry.
Indian Films Secure Spots Among 201 Oscars 2026 Contenders
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) has announced its list of 201 feature films eligible for Best Picture consideration at the upcoming ceremony. Among this competitive field, two Indian productions have successfully qualified, meeting the Academy’s stringent requirements and positioning themselves as legitimate contenders for Hollywood’s highest honor.According to Variety, both films have satisfied at least two of the Academy’s four inclusion standards while also completing the mandatory theatrical requirements. This achievement places Indian cinema alongside major international productions in the global spotlight.
The Road to Oscar 2026 Eligibility: What It Takes
Securing eligibility for Best Picture consideration is no small feat. The Academy requires films to meet specific criteria, including at least two of its four diversity and inclusion standards. Additionally, qualified films must complete a theatrical run in at least 10 of the top 50 US markets within 45 days of their initial 2025 release.
Both ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’ and ‘Tanvi the Great’ have successfully navigated these requirements, demonstrating their commercial viability and cultural relevance in the American market. While eligibility doesn’t guarantee a nomination, it represents a crucial first step in the Oscar journey.
Kantara Chapter 1: A Deep Dive into Tulunad’s Spiritual Heritage
Produced by Hombale Films, ‘Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1’ serves as a prequel to the critically acclaimed original. The film transports audiences to Tulunad, exploring the region’s rich traditions of divine worship and spiritual devotion.
Rishab Shetty reprises his powerful performance as Berme, the guardian of the Kantara forest and protector of indigenous tribal communities. The film weaves together themes of faith, tradition, and the deep connection between people and their ancestral lands, offering international audiences a window into India’s diverse cultural tapestry.
Tanvi The Great: Where Autism Meets Military Valor
Directed by veteran actor Anupam Kher in a bold behind-the-camera move, ‘Tanvi the Great’ tackles two significant themes: autism awareness and the Indian Army’s legacy. Shubhangi delivers what critics are calling a breakthrough performance as Tanvi Raina, a young woman on the autism spectrum who dreams of honoring her late father’s military service.
The film features an ensemble cast of Indian cinema heavyweights, including Anupam Kher, Jackie Shroff, Boman Irani, and Karan Tacker. This emotional narrative explores themes of determination, patriotism, and breaking societal barriers, resonating with universal human experiences while remaining distinctly Indian in its storytelling.
What Happens Next? Key Dates for Oscar Watchers
The Academy has been steadily narrowing down contenders across various categories. In November 2025, eligible films for Best Documentary, Animated Feature, and International Feature Film were announced, totaling 317 productions across all categories.
The critical date for Indian cinema enthusiasts is January 22, 2026, when the Academy will announce the official nominations. This is when the 201 eligible films will be whittled down to the final nominees, typically ranging from five to ten films depending on voting patterns.
A Historic Moment for Indian Cinema
The inclusion of two Indian films in the Best Picture eligibility list represents more than just individual achievements. It signals the growing global recognition of Indian storytelling and production values. From regional cinema breaking international barriers to mainstream productions gaining worldwide attention, Indian filmmakers are increasingly commanding respect on the world’s biggest stages.
This year’s dual representation continues India’s evolving relationship with the Academy Awards. While Indian films have previously competed in specialized categories, securing spots in the Best Picture race represents the ultimate validation of cinematic excellence.
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The Competitive Landscape
With 201 films vying for limited nomination slots, the competition remains fierce. However, both Indian entries bring unique perspectives and storytelling approaches that could appeal to Academy voters looking for diverse narratives. ‘Kantara Chapter 1’ offers rich cultural authenticity and visual grandeur, while ‘Tanvi the Great’ provides an emotionally resonant story with universal themes.
The coming weeks will be crucial as Academy members begin their screenings and deliberations. Whether or not these films secure nominations, their eligibility alone represents a victory for Indian cinema’s global ambitions.
As the January 22 announcement approaches, anticipation builds across India’s film industry. Will 2026 be the year that Indian cinema breaks through in the Best Picture category? The answer lies just weeks away.
For now, filmmakers, cast members, and millions of Indian cinema fans worldwide wait with bated breath, hoping to see these productions make the final nomination list and potentially bring home Oscar gold.
The 98th Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled for March 2026, where the final winners will be announced.
Chaitan Limkar is a tech and entertainment writer passionate about innovation, media, and the stories shaping the digital world.
