In a landmark announcement on the night of June 26, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) extended invitations to 543 creatives worldwide to join its prestigious voting body for the 98th Academy Awards. Among the select international cohort are celebrated Indian names whose inclusion marks a significant moment for India’s cinematic influence on the world stage.
In This Article:
Eminent Personalities from Indian Cinema
- Kamal Haasan, the iconic Indian film legend known for transformative performances in Nayakan, Vikram, and Moondram Pirai, has been invited to join the Actors’ Branch of the Academy. Haasan, who has earned national and international accolades since debuting in 1960, adds his storied legacy to a community now comprising over 11,000 industry professionals.
- Ayushmann Khurrana: The actor-singer known for groundbreaking roles in Article 15 and Andhadhun has received his invitation to the Actors’ Branch alongside Haasan. This recognition cements his status as one of the most deserving Indian actors of his generation.
- Payal Kapadia, the acclaimed writer-director whose All We Imagine as Light won the Cannes Grand Prix in 2024, has been tapped for the Writers’ Branch. Known also for participating as a 2025 Cannes jury member, Kapadia is celebrated for her storytelling prowess and distinct cinematic voice.
Behind-the-Camera Champions
India’s representation extends far beyond performances, embracing key figures across the technical and creative domains:
- Ranabir Das (Cinematography – A Night of Knowing Nothing)
- Maxima Basu (Costume Design – Bajirao Mastani & All We Imagine as Light)
- Karan Mally (Casting Director – Gully Boy)
- Smriti Mundhra (Documentary Filmmaker – I Am Ready, Warden), already invited by multiple branches.
A deeper dive into the full Indian cohort reveals expertise spanning sound (PM Satheesh – Baahubali), visual effects, production, sound editing, music composition, and executive leadership roles such as Ravi Ahuja. These selections highlight not just individual acclaim but the breadth of India’s filmcraft influence.
Embracing Global Voices & Diversity
Bill Kramer, CEO, and Janet Yang, President of the Academy, expressed enthusiasm on welcoming this distinguished assembly. Their statement framed the initiative as one fostering global storytelling and artistic excellence.
The Academy’s 2025 class reflects a deliberate shift toward inclusivity:
- 41% of invitees are women
- 45% hail from underrepresented ethnic or racial groups
- 55% reside outside the United States in over 60 countries.
This wave of invitations indicates AMPAS’s concerted effort to elevate diverse narratives and perspectives into the predominantly U.S.-centric membership.
Impact on Oscars Voting & Future Editions
Membership in the Academy isn’t open to application—it’s granted through sponsorship by two peers from the relevant film branch. Oscar nominees automatically become eligible within the year of their nomination. Once accepted, new members can vote in all categories and influence future Oscars, starting with the ceremony scheduled for March 15, 2026. The next nomination window opens January 12–16, with the nominee shortlist arriving January 22.
If all invitees join, the Academy’s total membership could rise above 11,000—over 10,000 eligible voters—ensuring broader representation in Hollywood’s most coveted awards.
India’s Ascending Influence
India’s growing footprint in this year’s Oscar membership class underscores its rising prominence in global cinema. Notably, the 2024 cohort already included illustrious figures like SS Rajamouli (RRR), Shabana Azmi, Rima Das (Village Rockstars), and choreographer Prem Rakshith (Naatu Naatu). This trend illustrates a long-term cultural and artistic bridge being built between Bollywood, regional cinema, and Hollywood’s creative summit.
Social Media: A Wave of Celebration
As the news spread across social platforms, reactions ranged from impassioned pride to heartfelt congratulations:
“Proud moment for Indians, Tamilians and especially Kamalians,” wrote a fan celebrating Haasan’s monumental inclusion. Another user remarked, “Wow, that’s awesome! Go Payal! She totally deserves it!” in response to Kapadia’s recognition.
These messages reflect both national pride and validation of artistry on the world stage.
What Lies Ahead
This wave of Indian membership promises enhanced visibility and voice in global awards—both in nominations and final selections. As these trailblazers join the Academy’s decision-making fold, expectations grow around more equitable recognition of Indian cinema—from niche documentaries to mainstream blockbusters—within the Oscar framework.
The evolving face of AMPAS membership could redefine future storytelling priorities, fostering cross-cultural collaboration and potentially increasing Indian nominees in major categories.
By – Sonali