Oscars 2026: Five Indian Films Eligible for Best Picture at 98th Academy Awards

The 98th Academy Awards, also known as Oscars 2026, have recognized five Indian films as eligible for the prestigious Best Picture category. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) released the list of 201 feature films that qualify for Best Picture, with a total of 317 films eligible across all categories.

This recognition highlights the growing global presence of Indian cinema, marking a proud moment for filmmakers and audiences alike.

Indian Films on the Best Picture Reminder List

The four Indian films eligible for Best Picture consideration at Oscars 2026 include:

• Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 (Kannada), directed by Rishabh Shetty
• Tanvi The Great (Hindi), directed by Anupam Kher
• Mahavatar Narsimha (Multilingual animated feature)
• Tourist Family (Tamil), by debut filmmaker Abishan Jeevinth

Additionally, Sister Midnight, a Hindi-UK co-production starring Radhika Apte, is also included.

Other Indian Films Eligible in General Category

Beyond Best Picture contenders, several Indian films are eligible in other categories. Notable entries include Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound (India’s official submission for International Feature Film), Dashavatar (Marathi), Gevi (Tamil), Humans in the Loop, Mahamantra – The Great Chant, Papa Buka (India-Papua New Guinea co-production), Paper Flowers, and Paro: The Untold Story of Bride Slavery.

Eligibility Criteria for Oscars 2026

To qualify for the Best Picture category, films must meet the following requirements:

• Run in at least 10 U.S. theaters for 45 days during 2025.
• Submit a Representation and Inclusion Standards Entry (RAISE) form.
• Meet at least two of the four inclusion standards set by AMPAS.

These rules aim to ensure diversity, representation, and inclusivity in the awards.

Oscars 2026 Timeline

• Nominations Voting: 12th to 16th January 2026.
• Nominations Announcement: 22nd January 2026, revealing the final five nominees in each category.
• Award Ceremony: 15th March 2026 at the Dolby Theatre, Los Angeles, California, USA.

About the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science (AMPAS)

• President: Lynette Howell Taylor
• Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, USA
• Established: 1927

AMPAS is responsible for recognizing excellence in cinema globally, including presenting the Oscars to outstanding films, actors, and filmmakers.