India eyes Oscar glory as ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’ and ‘Tanvi The Great’ enter Best Picture eligibility list

Rishab Shetty and Anupam Kher’s films clear strict Academy norms, joining 201 feature films eligible for the 98th Academy Awards

Indian cinema has moved a step closer to the global spotlight as two Indian films have officially entered the eligibility list for the 98th Academy Awards. Rishab Shetty’s ‘Kantara: A Legend - Chapter 1’ and Anupam Kher’s ‘Tanvi The Great’ are among the 201 feature films that qualify for consideration in the Best Picture category.

The list of eligible films was released by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), as per sources. According to the Academy, these 201 films fulfilled all the additional requirements beyond basic eligibility to enter the prestigious Best Picture race.

The eligibility process involved strict criteria. The films were required to complete theatrical runs and submit a confidential Academy Representation and Inclusion Standards Entry (RAISE) form. In addition, each film had to meet at least two of the four Academy inclusion standards.

Also Read:Rocking Star Yash celebrates birthday with ‘Toxic’ teaser release..VIDEO

Another key requirement was a qualifying theatrical engagement in at least 10 of the top 50 US markets, which had to be completed within 45 days of the film’s initial release in 2025.

By meeting all these conditions, both the ‘Kantara’ prequel and ‘Tanvi The Great’ have positioned themselves as serious contenders on the international stage, marking a significant moment for Indian cinema’s global outreach.

Earlier, in November 2025, the Academy had released a separate list of films eligible for Best Documentary Feature, Animated Feature, and International Feature Film, with the total number of eligible entries across all categories reaching 317.

Also Read:Ramya shares another stray dog video, opposes shelters as citizens raise safety alarm

The final nominations for the 98th Academy Awards are scheduled to be announced on January 22, when it will be clear whether these Indian films advance further in the Oscar race.