Ramayana Enters Oscars Race As Makers Submit Film For 99th Academy Awards Consideration

The makers of Ramayana: Part 1 have taken a step towards the international awards circuit by submitting the film for consideration at the 99th Academy Awards, according to an exclusive report by NDTV. The submission puts the Indian epic among the films seeking a place in the upcoming Oscars race, although it is not India's official selection for the International Feature Film category.

How Can Ramayana Qualify For The Oscars?

India's official nomination does not prevent other films from independently entering the Academy Awards competition. Filmmakers can submit their projects for consideration if they meet the Academy's eligibility requirements.

This allows Ramayana to pursue an Oscar opportunity separately from Marathi film Gondhal, which has been selected as India's official entry.

An independent feature film can qualify for the Oscars by meeting the Academy's standard theatrical release requirements.

The film must complete a theatrical run of at least seven consecutive days in a qualifying US metropolitan area, with the prescribed daily screenings. Eligible locations include Los Angeles County, New York City, the San Francisco Bay Area, Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth and Atlanta.

After completing the qualifying run, filmmakers or distributors can submit the Oscars General Entry Form online, along with the required theatre credentials and film credits.

Gondhal Is India's Official Entry, Angh Also Eligible

The International Feature Film category has traditionally followed a different selection process under the 'one country, one film' rule. Countries could submit only one officially selected film through a committee recognised by the Academy.

However, the Academy has introduced an additional route for independent international films. Films that win certain prestigious awards at designated international film festivals can become eligible for consideration without going through their country's official selection committee.

This has created another opportunity for Indian cinema. While Marathi film Gondhal is India's official entry, Naga-language film Angh has also become eligible for consideration in the International Feature Film category after winning the Platform Award at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).

Ramayana Crosses ₹673 Crore Worldwide

Meanwhile, Ramayana: Part 1 has made a strong start at the box office. Released on November 5, the film has collected more than ₹403.95 crore in India and approximately ₹673.90 crore worldwide as of Day 6.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the epic features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana.

With its submission for Academy Awards consideration, the film is now seeking recognition beyond its box-office success in India and overseas.