Oscars 2025: The 97th Academy Awards, scheduled for 2025, have recognized seven Indian films as contenders, highlighting the nation’s diverse cinematic talent. Here’s an overview of these films:

Oscars 2025: 7 Indian Films Shining Bright on the Global Stage

1. Kanguva (Tamil)

Directed by Siva, Kanguva is a period fantasy featuring Suriya in the lead role. The film has garnered attention for its grand scale and compelling narrative. Critics have praised Suriya’s performance, noting that he impresses in a period fantasy that’s both engaging and visually stunning.

2. Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life) (Malayalam)

Based on Benyamin’s novel, Aadujeevitham stars Prithviraj Sukumaran as Najeeb, an Indian man who, seeking work, follows a job lead to Saudi Arabia, only to find himself forced to labour without pay as a goat herder in the remote desert. The film has been lauded for its intense storytelling and Prithviraj’s powerful performance.

3. Santosh (Hindi)

Directed by Sandhya Suri, Santosh follows a newly widowed woman who inherits her husband’s job as a police constable in the rural badlands of Northern India. The film delves into her challenges and resilience, offering a nuanced portrayal of a woman’s journey in a male-dominated profession.

4. Swatantrya Veer Savarkar (Hindi)

This biographical drama chronicles the life of Indian revolutionary Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, portrayed by Randeep Hooda. The film delves into Savarkar’s relentless struggle against British colonial rule, highlighting his contributions to India’s independence movement. Critics have described it as a compelling odyssey that brings to light the indomitable spirit of a hero.

5. All We Imagine as Light (Malayalam-Hindi)

Directed by Payal Kapadia, All We Imagine as Light is a Malayalam-Hindi film that follows three Indian women navigating their lives in Mumbai. The film has been acclaimed for its intimate narrative and emotional depth, exploring societal challenges around class, gender, and religion. It won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival and has received Golden Globe nominations.

6. Girls Will Be Girls (Hindi-English)

Directed by Shuchi Talati, Girls Will Be Girls centers around Mira, a high-achieving high school senior in India, and her evolving relationship with her mother, Anila. The film captures the nuanced moments of adolescence, as Mira’s life intertwines with her new crush, Srinivas. Critics have praised the film for its compelling performances and its exploration of generational female awakening and bodily autonomy.

7. Putul (Bengali)

Directed and produced by Indira Dhar, Putul is a Bengali film that tells the story of two mothers from different walks of life whose paths cross, leading to life-changing consequences. Notably, Putul has made history by becoming the first Bengali film to be considered for a nomination in the Best Picture category at the Oscars.

The nomination voting process for the Oscars commenced on January 8, 2025, and will conclude on January 12, 2025. The final list of nominees is scheduled to be revealed on January 17, 2025.

These films not only showcase the rich tapestry of Indian cinema but also reflect the country’s evolving storytelling techniques and thematic explorations. Their inclusion in the Oscars 2025 contender’s list underscores the global recognition of Indian films and their ability to resonate with audiences worldwide.