Rishab Shetty's highly anticipated prequel 'Kantara: A Legend - Chapter 1' and Anupam Kher's directorial 'Tanvi The Great' have secured a place on the prestigious eligibility list for Best Picture at the upcoming 98th Academy Awards, slated for March 15, 2026. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) officially released a list of 201 feature films that have met the rigorous criteria for consideration in the top category. This announcement, made on January 8 and 9, 2026, confirms the films' successful navigation of the Academy's complex eligibility requirements. These criteria include a qualifying theatrical run in at least one of six major U.S. metropolitan areas between January 1 and December 31, 2025, for a minimum of seven consecutive days. Additionally, films had to submit a confidential Academy Representation and Inclusion Standards Entry (RAISE) form and adhere to an expanded theatrical release standard, which mandates a seven-day run in 10 of the top 50 U.S. markets within 45 days of their initial 2025 release. While 'Homebound' is India's official entry in the International Feature Film category, 'Kantara: Chapter 1' and 'Tanvi The Great' pursued independent pathways to qualify for the Best Picture race. Another Indian film, 'Mahavatar Narsimha', has also made it to the eligibility list. This development marks a significant moment for Indian cinema on the global stage, increasing its presence at the world's most renowned film awards. The final nominations for the 98th Academy Awards are scheduled to be announced on January 22, 2026.