Oscars Honors Rajamouli and others: Academy sends the prestigious invitation

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has extended invitations to a distinguished group of Indian filmmakers, actors, and technicians, recognizing their remarkable contributions to cinema.

Veteran actress Shabana Azmi, known for her powerful performances in films like Godmother, Arth, and Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, has been invited to join the Actors branch, marking a significant milestone as she celebrates 50 years in the industry.

SS Rajamouli, the visionary director behind the epic RRR, which won the Oscar for Best Original Song in 2023, has been invited to the Directors branch. He is joined by acclaimed independent filmmaker Rima Das, known for films like Tora’s Husband and Village Rockstars.

Producer Ritesh Sidhwani, known for backing critically acclaimed movies like Gully Boy and Dil Chahta Hai, will join the Producers branch.

Renowned cinematographer Ravi Varman, whose credits include Japan, Ponniyin Selvan: Part Two, and Indian 2, has been invited to the Cinematographers branch.

The Academy’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its selection of diverse talent, including Rama Rajamouli, RRR’s costume designer and wife of SS Rajamouli, who has been invited to the Costume Designers branch. Choreographer Prem Rakshith, who created the iconic dance moves for the Oscar-winning song Naatu Naatu, is part of the Production and Technology branch, while Sheetal Sharma, known for her work on Gangubai Kathiawadi and Kesari, has been invited to the same branch.

Documentary filmmaker Hemal Trivedi, known for films like Among the Believers and Saving Face, will join the Documentary branch.

Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang expressed their excitement: “We are thrilled to welcome this year’s class of new members to the Academy. These remarkably talented artists and professionals from around the world have made a significant impact on our filmmaking community.”

This latest round of invitations further underscores the growing international recognition of Indian cinema, and the Academy’s commitment to celebrating the best of global filmmaking.