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Marathi Film 'Dashavatar' Lands on Oscars 2026 Contention List

The placement follows an independent submission in the Academy’s general categories, with campaigning underway before Jan. 22 nominations.

Overview

  • Director Subodh Khanolkar and Zee Studios confirmed the Academy has accepted Dashavatar onto its contention list, an eligibility stage that does not constitute a nomination.
  • The makers say it is likely the first Marathi film included in the Academy’s main competition pool and the first screened in the Academy Screening Room.
  • Dashavatar was submitted independently by Ocean Film Company for general categories, while India’s official Best International Feature entry remains Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound, which has its own shortlist recognition.
  • The contention pool is drawn from more than 2,000 global submissions, with roughly 150–250 titles advancing after meeting rules that include a qualifying U.S. theatrical run.
  • Written and directed by Khanolkar and backed by Zee Studios and Ocean Film Company, the mythological folk drama opened on Sept. 12, 2025 and logged strong box-office results for a Marathi release.