Kantara makes it for Oscar contention in Best Picture and Best Actor categories

After gaining accolades and mammoth box office success, the makers and fans of the Kannada film Kantara have another reason to rejoice and a big one at that. The Rishab Shetty movie has made it to the Oscar contention in two categories – Best Picture and Best Actor (Shetty). Hence, the film is now eligible for the Oscar members to cast a vote which will get it included in the main nominations.

The news was shared by the film’s producers Hombale Films on Twitter. The production house wrote, “We are overjoyed to share that Kantara has received 2 Oscar qualifications! A heartfelt thank you to all who have supported us. We look forward to share this journey ahead with all of your support. Can’t wait to see it shine at the @shetty_rishab #Oscars #Kantara #HombaleFilms.”

The producers had sent Kantara to be considered for the Oscar nominations last year in December 2022. Vijay Kiragandur from Hombale Films had told Economic Times, “We have filed our application for Oscars 2023 for Kantara and have our fingers crossed. Kantara is such a deep narrative that we think it may attract a global audience as well.” He also revealed that they are considering a second film in the franchise.

For those not in the know, Kantara depicts a conflict between humans and nature where Shiva (Shetty), a village native, takes the side of his village and nature. The film also depicts the third avatar of Lord Vishnu called the Varaha Avatar. Apart from playing the lead actor, Shetty has also written and directed the film.