Two Indian Films Make 2026 Oscars Best Picture Contention List
Indian films Kantara and Tanvi The Great meet Academy eligibility criteria, strengthening India’s presence in 2026 Oscars Best Picture race
Mumbai, Jan 09 — As the countdown to the 98th Academy Awards continues, Indian cinema is making its mark on the global stage. Two Indian films, Rishab Shetty’s ‘Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1’ and Anupam Kher’s ‘Tanvi The Great’, have officially joined the list of 201 films eligible for Best Picture consideration at the Oscars.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) revealed the list of films qualifying for the prestigious category, according to Variety. To be eligible, films needed to complete a theatrical run, submit the confidential Academy Representation and Inclusion Standards Entry (RAISE) form, meet at least two of four inclusion standards, and hold a qualifying theatrical engagement in 10 of the top 50 U.S. markets within 45 days of their 2025 release.
Produced by Hombale Films, Kantara: Chapter 1 delves into the origins of Daiva worship in Tulunadu, tracing its roots to the fourth-century Kadamba dynasty. Rishab Shetty stars as Berme, the guardian of the titular Kantara forest and its tribal communities.
Tanvi The Great, directed by Anupam Kher, tells the story of Tanvi Raina, a young girl inspired by her late father’s service in the Indian Army. The film addresses themes of autism and determination and features Anupam Kher, Jackie Shroff, Boman Irani, and Karan Tacker in prominent roles.
The Oscar nominations for the 98th edition will be announced on January 22, with both films now in contention to make history for Indian cinema on the world’s biggest stage.
