Rishabh Shetty’s Kantara: Chapter 1 has officially entered the Oscars 2026 race. For those unaware, it is among several Indian films that have met the eligibility
criteria for the Academy Awards’ Best Picture consideration list. The line-up also includes the animated film Mahavatar Narasimha, Tourist Family, Tanvi the Great and Sister Midnight. Bollywood actor Vivek Oberoi congratulated the makers on this significant achievement. While the official nominations are yet to be announced, he praised the film for creating “cinematic history” with its portrayal of Daiva culture. Vivek Oberoi Lauds Rishab Shetty's Kantara: Chapter 1 Vivek tweeted, "What was once a sacred ritual, guarded by the ancient spirits of Tulunad, has now erupted into a global inferno. Bhuta Kola has transcended borders, shattering the silence to become a worldwide phenomenon." He added, "Massive congratulations, my brother @shetty_rishab on qualifying for the Best Picture race at the 98th Academy Awards! This isn’t just a nomination; it is the roar of our ancestors echoing on the world's most prestigious stage. You have carried the raw, beating heart of Bharat into the global spotlight. The soil of our land now claims its place in cinematic history. Oscars ni intiki teeskostunnam (We are bringing the Oscars home)." He was reacting to the official update shared by Hombale Films. Their tweet read, "Rooted in our culture, driven by divinity. Proud and privileged as #KantaraChapter1 enters the Best Picture contending race at the #Oscars Academy Awards 2026." Rishab Shetty REACTS Meanwhile, earlier today, the actor-director of the film tweeted: "100 days of #KantaraChapter1! I’m grateful to my team and to everyone who supported us with so much love. Feeling incredibly proud that the film has reached audiences around the world and is now Oscar-qualified." Directed by and starring Rishab, Kantara: Chapter 1 serves as the prequel to the 2022 hit. The mythological drama also stars Rukmini Vasanth and Gulshan Devaiah in key roles. The film became one of 2025’s biggest Indian successes, grossing over ₹850 crore worldwide.
