India’s official entry for the 99th Academy Awards is expected to be announced by the Film Federation of India at an event in Mumbai on Friday, September 18, 2026. The decision will determine which Indian film enters the race for best international feature film, one of the most popular Oscar-related announcements for Indian cinema every year.
The choice is of further interest as Malayalam cinema may make a strong comeback into the discussion. After Jude Anthani Joseph’s 2018 was selected as India’s official Oscar entry for the 2024 Oscar cycle, films from the industry are again being discussed as possible contenders. Among the films that are reportedly being considered is Balan, directed by Chidambaram.
Why are Malayalam movies being watched this year?
Balan is said to focus on the emotional relationship between a mother and her son, a theme that often transcends language barriers if approached with restraint and specificity. Chidambaram’s name is also attracting attention given the growing national prominence of Malayalam filmmakers and actors in recent years.
The Malayalam industry has built a reputation for compact storytelling, strong writing and grounded performances. This has helped several films from Kerala find audiences outside the state through cinemas, streaming platforms and festival grounds. This year’s selection process could test whether that broader assessment will lead to official Oscar recognition again.
According to the eligibility criteria, the films had to be released in Indian cinemas between October 1, 2025 and September 30, 2026. They must also have been rented for at least seven consecutive days. These rules are critical because an official Oscar entry cannot be based solely on popularity, critical acclaim or streaming reach.
How an Indian Oscar nominee is selected
The Film Federation of India selects one film as the country’s official entry in the Best International Feature Film category. However, this selection does not guarantee an Oscar nomination. Before a film makes it onto the final list of nominations, the film must first be accepted, screened, and then shortlisted by the Academy.
Other Indian films can also apply independently if Academy rules allow, but only one film has an official country tag. Last year, the Hindi film Home, about two friends hoping to get a job in the police, was selected as India’s official entry but was not shortlisted.
Reports suggest that films like Dorothy and Dhurandhar 2 could also be part of the discussion this year. With 62 countries already submitting films to the international feature film competition, India’s selection will enter a competitive global field where story, craft, campaign strategy and timing matter.
The announcement will be closely watched not only by fans of the awards, but also by regional film industries seeking wider recognition. For Malayalam cinema, a strong showing in the selection hall will strengthen its growing position in the national and international dialogue of Indian cinema.
