2023 marked the biggest and best year for Bollywood enthusiasts, as actors and directors witnessed a plethora of surprises, shattering expectations and dashing hopes in equal measure. From the resounding success of Shah Rukh Khan's films, Pathaan, Jawan, and Dunki, to the unexpected triumph of 'Gadar 2', and the commercial failure turned heart-winning film of the year, '12th Fail.' Other hits like Satyaprem Ki Katha, Sam Bahadur, Animal, OMG 2, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani, The Kerala Story, and many more contributed to a diverse cinematic experience, leaving audiences in awe or contemplation. Hoping for Bollywood films to touch the Oscars is of course a desire by every enthusiast, as the industry witnessed exceptional content and entertainment last year. ALSO READ: Did You Know: Rakesh Roshan Wanted to Cast Romance King Shah Rukh Khan for Hrithik Roshan's Blockbuster Debut Film 'Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai'?
Currently, the selection process for India's official entry to the Oscars 2024 is underway. With over 22 entries spanning various languages and genres, the Film Federation of India (FFI) is overseeing the review in Chennai, led by a 17-member jury headed by filmmaker Girish Kasaravalli. The final decision is anticipated to be announced shortly.
Among the films submitted for Oscar consideration are titles like —
1. The Storyteller (Hindi)
2. Music School (Hindi)
3. Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway (Hindi)
4. Dunki (Hindi)
5. 12th Fail (Hindi)
6. Viduthalai Part 1 (Tamil)
7. Ghoomer (Hindi)
8. Dasara (Telugu).
9. Zwigato (Hindi)
10. Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (Hindi)
11. The Kerala Story (Hindi).
12. 2018 (Malayalam) and more.
Additional films like "Vaalvi" (Marathi), "Gadar 2" (Hindi), "Ab Toh Sab Bhagwan Bharose" (Hindi), and "Baap Lyok" (Marathi) could also make it to the list. Noteworthy contenders generating buzz include "Zwigato," "Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani," "The Kerala Story," and "2018," a Malayalam film depicting the aftermath of the Kerala floods, starring Tovino Thomas and Parvathy Thiruvothu, directed by Aashiq Abu.
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In 2022, the Telugu original film 'RRR,' directed by SS Rajamouli, made history by winning an Oscar for its song 'Naatu Naatu.' However, the film's nomination was submitted by the apex body of Indian film producers, not officially by the government of India. Meanwhile, the Tamil film "96," directed by Sudha Konagara and featuring Suriya and Aparna Balamurali, made it to India's official Oscar entry but fell short of making it to the shortlist.
When And Where To Watch the 96th Academy Awards In India?
The 96th Academy Awards, celebrating the finest films of 2023, will be held on March 10, 2024 (EST), at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California. For Indian viewers, the ceremony will be broadcast on March 11, 2024, from 4:30 AM to 7:30 AM (IST). While YouTubeTV is a reliable option for streaming, Hotstar usually broadcasts the event in India, pending confirmation for this year.
The nomination process for the 96th Academy Awards began, with the reveal scheduled for January 23 (EST) or January 24 (IST). The final voting for this year's winners will commence on February 22 at 9 a.m. Pacific Time and conclude on February 27 at 5 p.m.
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