Indian cinema has a rich history, producing films that resonate both domestically and internationally. However, the journey to global recognition, particularly at the Academy Awards, has been fraught with challenges. Deepika Padukone, a luminary in Indian cinema, recently shed light on this issue, expressing her belief that many deserving Indian films have been overlooked by the Oscars. Her sentiments echo a broader discourse on the global acknowledgment of Indian cinematic excellence.
Deepika Padukone’s Reflections on the Oscars
In a recent interview, Deepika Padukone articulated her feelings about the Oscars’ history with Indian films. She remarked, “India has been robbed of the Oscars many times. Many deserving movies and talents have been snubbed.” This perspective underscores a sentiment shared by many in the Indian film fraternity, who feel that the Academy has often overlooked the depth and diversity of Indian cinema.
The Emotional Triumph of “Naatu Naatu”
Deepika Padukone also recounted her experience at the 95th Academy Awards in 2023, where she witnessed the song “Naatu Naatu” from the Telugu film “RRR” win the Oscar for Best Original Song. Despite not being directly associated with the film, she felt an overwhelming sense of pride and emotion, reflecting the collective joy of Indians worldwide.
Historical Snubs of Indian Films at the Oscars
The narrative of Indian films being overlooked by the Academy is not new. Several critically acclaimed movies have failed to secure nominations or wins, leading to discussions about the selection process and potential biases.
“All We Imagine as Light” and Its Oscar Journey
One notable example is Payal Kapadia’s “All We Imagine as Light.” The film received international acclaim, winning the Grand Prix at Cannes. However, it was not selected as India’s official entry for the Oscars, sparking debates about the criteria and transparency of the selection process.
The 2025 Oscars: Notable Snubs
The 2025 Oscars continued this trend, with several Indian films failing to secure nominations despite their critical acclaim:
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“Swatantrya Veer Savarkar”: A historical drama focusing on the life of Indian freedom fighter Veer Savarkar, which, despite its depth and powerful performances, was overlooked by the Academy.
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“Putul”: This Bengali drama captivated audiences but didn’t make it to the Academy’s nomination list.
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“Kanguva”: The highly anticipated action epic failed to grab the Academy’s attention despite its grandeur.
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“Laapataa Ladies”: Directed by Kiran Rao, this film emerged as the biggest winner at the 2025 International Indian Film Academy Awards, bagging 10 wins, including Best Picture and Best Direction. However, it was notably absent from the Oscar nominations.
Deepika Padukone: A Global Ambassador for Indian Cinema
Beyond her reflections on the Oscars, Deepika Padukone continues to elevate Indian cinema on the global stage. She made history by presenting at the 95th Academy Awards, introducing the performance of “Naatu Naatu.” Her presence was lauded as a proud moment for India, with social media abuzz with admiration for her poise and representation.
Additionally, Deepika Padukone’s association with luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Cartier as a global ambassador showcases her influence beyond cinema, embodying the blend of Indian tradition and contemporary global fashion.
The Broader Implications for Indian Cinema
The recurring snubs of Indian films at the Oscars raise pertinent questions about the selection processes, both within India and at the Academy. Critics argue that the “one country, one film” rule is outdated and often overlooks deserving films due to internal politics and biases. The case of “All We Imagine as Light” not being selected as India’s official entry, despite its international acclaim, highlights the complexities and challenges within the system.
The Path Forward
For Indian cinema to receive its due recognition on global platforms like the Oscars, a multifaceted approach is essential:
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Transparent Selection Processes: Establishing clear and unbiased criteria for selecting India’s official Oscar entries can ensure that the most deserving films represent the country.
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Global Campaigns: Active promotion and lobbying are crucial. Films like “RRR” have shown that with the right strategy, Indian cinema can make a mark internationally.
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Diverse Storytelling: Embracing a variety of narratives that reflect India’s rich cultural tapestry can appeal to global audiences and critics alike.
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Collaborations and Workshops: Engaging with international filmmakers and participating in global workshops can provide insights into the preferences and standards of global award committees.
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Deepika Padukone’s reflections bring to the forefront the ongoing challenges and aspirations of Indian cinema in achieving global recognition. While the journey has been marked by both triumphs and snubs, the resilience and creativity of Indian filmmakers continue to shine. With concerted efforts and a focus on authentic storytelling, Indian cinema is poised to carve a definitive space on the global stage, ensuring that its stories receive the recognition they truly deserve.
