EntertainmentPosted at: Jan 9 2026 1:37PM


Two Indian films join 2026 Oscars Best Picture Contention List

New Delhi, Jan 9 (UNI) As the countdown to the 98th Academy Awards continues, Indian cinema is making waves once again, moving closer to a potential Oscar win this year.
Two Indian films, Rishab Shetty’s ‘Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1’ and Anupam Kher’s ‘Tanvi The Great’, have taken a strategic step toward global recognition by joining the list of 201 feature films eligible for consideration at the 98th Oscars.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) revealed the 201 films that qualify directly for the prestigious Best Picture category, according to Variety.
Eligible films had to meet additional requirements beyond general entry, including a theatrical run and submission of a confidential Academy Representation and Inclusion Standards Entry (RAISE) form.
They also needed to satisfy at least two of the four Academy inclusion standards and complete a qualifying theatrical engagement in 10 of the top 50 U.S. markets within 45 days of their initial 2025 release.
Having met all the criteria, both Kantara and Tanvi The Great have positioned themselves as potential contenders on the global stage.
Earlier in November 2025, the Academy had announced eligible films for Best Documentary, Animated Feature, and International Feature Film, totaling 317 across all categories. The Oscar nominations for the 98th edition will be unveiled on January 22.
Produced by Hombale Films, ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’ explores 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 ‘Kantara’ forest and its tribal communities.
Directed by Anupam Kher, ‘Tanvi The Great’ features Shubhangi in the title role of Tanvi Raina, a young girl inspired by her late father’s service in the Indian Army.
The film explores themes of autism and determination, with Anupam Kher, Jackie Shroff, Boman Irani, and Karan Tacker in key roles.
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