Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai
Mumbai, Jun 27: Indian cinema has once again taken centre stage on the global film map with legendary actor Kamal Haasan and critically acclaimed star Ayushmann Khurrana being invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the prestigious body behind the Oscars. The two join an illustrious list of 534 new invitees announced by the Academy on June 26.
Sharing the honours with global icons like pop sensation Ariana Grande, actors Sebastian Stan, Jason Momoa, Jeremy Strong, and talk-show host Conan O’Brien, the two Indian actors represent the diversity and depth of Indian cinema in the global arena.
Apart from Kamal Haasan and Ayushmann Khurrana, several other Indian film professionals have also made it to the invitee list this year. These include:
• Karan Mally, Casting Director
• Ranabir Das, Cinematographer
• Maxima Basu, Costume Designer
• Smriti Mundhra, Documentary Filmmaker
• Payal Kapadia, Award-winning Filmmaker
The list also features some of Hollywood’s most prominent names including Dave Bautista, Aubrey Plaza, Gillian Anderson, Danielle Deadwyler, Andrew Scott, Jodie Comer, and ‘Succession’ stars Kieran Culkin and Jeremy Strong.
In line with its commitment to inclusivity and representation, the Academy revealed that this year’s invitee class comprises 41% women and 45% individuals from underrepresented communities. Notably, 55% of the new members hail from 60 countries and territories outside the United States.
Should all invitees accept their invitations, the Academy's total membership would reach 11,120, with 10,143 members eligible to vote for the Oscars.
“The Academy prioritises professional merit while also upholding our responsibility to champion representation, inclusion, and equity across the global film community,” the Academy stated in an official release.
Unlike traditional applications, new members must be sponsored by two existing members from the same branch of the Academy—except for those entering as Associates. The Academy consists of 19 branches and one general membership category, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive approach to recognition.
The excitement continues to build for the upcoming Oscars in 2026, scheduled for March 15. The nominations voting window will run from January 12 to 16, with the final nominations list announced on January 22. The iconic Oscar Nominees Luncheon is set for February 10, and the ceremony will be hosted by none other than comedian Conan O’Brien.
As India continues to strengthen its cinematic presence on the world stage, these invitations signal global recognition of the country’s creative talent, diversity, and evolving influence in the international film industry.