Mumbai, January 9, 2026 — Indian cinema is once again gaining global attention as two major films — Kantara: Chapter 1 and Tanvi The Great — have officially entered the list of films eligible for the Best Picture race at the 98th Academy Awards. This milestone places both films among 201 feature films worldwide now under consideration for the prestigious Oscars ceremony set for March 16, 2026, in Los Angeles.
Historic Moment for Indian Film Industry
In a significant development, Kantara: Chapter 1 and Tanvi The Great have joined the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ (AMPAS) eligibility list for Best Picture. Inclusion on this list means the films have met multiple tough requirements outlined by the Academy, marking a meaningful step toward potential Oscar nominations.
These requirements go beyond basic submission. The films needed to:
- Complete a qualifying theatrical run in major U.S. markets
- Fulfill the Academy Representation and Inclusion Standards (RAISE)
- Meet at least two of four film inclusion standards
- Screen in 10 of the top 50 U.S. markets within 45 days of release in 2025
Successfully crossing all these checkpoints has earned both films their spot among contenders.
About Kantara: Chapter 1
Kantara: Chapter 1 is another eagerly awaited film with Hombale Films and Rishab Shetty as director. The film continues the original and explores Indian mythology and the Tulunadu region’s folklore and cultural traditions.
The film has rich storytelling and visuals that helped it connect with people both in India and overseas, resulting in the film’s qualification for the Academy’s list.
About Tanvi The Great
The film is directed and produced by the veteran actor Anupam Kher, where he narrates the story of Tanvi Raina, a young heroine who aspires to be in the Indian Army, although she has to deal with some personal obstacles. The film also stars Shubhangi, Anupam Kher, Boman Irani, and Jackie Shroff and conveys an emotional message mixed with a spirit of determination and with a message of courage.
What This Means for India at the Oscars
While Homebound remains India’s official entry in the Best International Feature Film category, Kantara: Chapter 1 and Tanvi The Great adopted a separate strategy, entering directly into the general Best Picture eligibility list rather than through national selection.
While being on the eligibility list does not ensure nominations, it does put both films among the best films in the world for the year. The final nominations for the Oscars will be released on January 22, 2026, and there is a palpable sense of excitement within the film community as film fans wait for the news.
Global Competition Remains Intense
This year’s Oscars race is highly competitive, with a total of 317 films across categories qualifying for different awards including Best Documentary and Animated Feature. Indian films stepping into the Best Picture eligibility list highlight the expanding international footprint of India’s cinema.
