Oscars 2026: Homebound leads India’s Oscar push as ‘Kantara’, ‘Tanvi’ enter best picture mix

As the 98th Academy Awards approach, Indian cinema is once again gaining global attention. According to the latest update, two Indian films — Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 and Tanvi The Great — have been included among the 201 feature films worldwide eligible for consideration in the Best Picture category at the Oscars 2026.

Directed by Rishab Shetty and Anupam Kher, respectively, ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’ and ‘Tanvi The Great’, have secured a place on the eligibility list released by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS). The list includes films that have fulfilled all eligibility requirements beyond standard entry rules.​

The Academy stated that the selected films completed qualifying theatrical runs and submitted the mandatory Academy Representation and Inclusion Standards Entry (RAISE) form. In addition, films were required to meet at least two of the Academy’s four inclusion standards and screen in at least 10 of the top 50 US markets within 45 days of their release in 2025.

While Neeraj Ghaywan’s ‘Homebound’ remains India’s official submission in the Best International Feature Film category, ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’ and ‘Tanvi The Great’ are competing through a different route. Unlike the International Feature category, which allows only one official entry per country, the Best Picture category has no country-wise restriction, allowing multiple films from the same nation to qualify if they meet the Academy’s criteria.

By fulfilling these conditions, both ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’ and ‘Tanvi The Great’ have positioned themselves as potential contenders in one of the most competitive categories at the Oscars. The official nominations will be announced on January 22.

‘Kantara: Chapter 1’, written, directed, and led by Rishab Shetty, explores the origins of Daiva worship in Tulunadu, tracing its history back to the fourth-century Kadamba dynasty. Shetty plays Berme, the guardian of the Kantara forest and its tribal communities. The film was released in theatres on October 2, 2025.

Meanwhile, ‘Tanvi The Great’, directed by Anupam Kher, stars Shubhangi in the lead role of Tanvi Raina. The film delves into themes of autism, resilience, and patriotism, following a young girl inspired by her late father’s service in the Indian Army. The cast also includes Anupam Kher, Jackie Shroff, Boman Irani, and Karan Tacker in prominent roles.

With all three films now taking different paths to the Oscars, India’s presence at the Academy Awards 2026 promises to be closely watched on the global stage.