Kiran Rao on why Indian films haven’t won an Oscar yet

For over a century, Indian cinema has dazzled audiences around the world, yet the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film has remained elusive. This year, hopes are high as ‘Homebound’ takes the spotlight as India’s official entry to the Oscars. And filmmaker Kiran Rao, who recently celebrated her film ‘Laapataa Ladies’ sweeping 13 Filmfare Awards, shared her thoughts on why Indian films often struggle to win over the Western award circuit.

Speaking to IANS, Kiran offered a thoughtful perspective on the so-called “bias” against Indian cinema. “I don’t know if there’s a conscious bias,” she said. “But I feel that every country is seen through its own lens. The Academy has its own way of looking at films, and while they appreciate Indian cinema, often it doesn’t tick all the boxes for many voters. It’s like trying to convince people to connect with something they may not instinctively gravitate towards.”

Advertisement

Kiran’s words shed light on a subtle truth that it’s not about the quality of the films but the way they are perceived. Indian cinema is vast, vibrant, and full of stories. Yet, the Oscars operate on a different set of expectations shaped by their cultural context.

But the filmmaker remains optimistic. “India makes all kinds of films, and I believe that at some stage, we will have a film that will make the country proud,” Kiran said. She pointed to ‘Homebound’ as a hopeful contender describing it as “a film that would resonate with the voters.”

Also Read: INTERVIEW: Kiran Rao on ‘Laapataa Ladies’ and sparking change through cinema

Yet, she acknowledged that understanding the Oscars goes beyond just creating a great film. “There’s a whole ecosystem around the Oscars,” she explained. “Distribution, campaigning, knowing how films travel through that route. All of this matters. Indian films are made for our audiences first, for the ideas we want to share and the issues we feel are important.”

Kiran also highlighted that recognition doesn’t always follow the commercial path. She recalled winning an Academy Award at an International Academy in Japan, which came as a delightful surprise. “It wasn’t the biggest commercial film there, but it showed that your work can be appreciated regardless. That’s what matters,” she said.

Her take on awards is refreshingly grounded. “Awards will only come if there’s a natural recognition from the audience watching your film,” she explained. “Sometimes it’s about luck, sometimes it’s about timing, and sometimes it’s about the right connection. But I do feel the day when an Indian film will win an Oscar is not far.”