Mahavatar Narsimha qualifies for Oscars Best Animated Feature category. The Indian animated film, directed by debut filmmaker Ashwin Kumar, is among 35 films eligible for the 98th Academy Awards. It will compete with global titles like Zootopia 2, Chainsaw Man, KPop Demon Hunters, and Demon Slayer. The film blends 2D-3D animation with anime-style storytelling and high-energy action, creating a visual universe rooted in Hindu tradition yet globally appealing.
Released on July 25, 2025, the film earned over Rs 300 crore domestically and Rs 400 crore globally, becoming India’s highest-grossing animated film. It met Academy qualifying requirements by running for seven consecutive days in the United States with three daily screenings. The film is now available on Netflix, reaching worldwide audiences. The shortlist of five nominees will be announced on December 16, with final nominations in January 2026.
Mahavatar Narsimha is the first installment in a seven-part Mahavatar Cinematic Universe inspired by Bhagwan Vishnu’s avatars. Future releases include Mahavatar Parashuram (2027), Mahavatar Raghunandan (2029), Mahavatar Dwarkadhish (2031), Mahavatar Gokulananda (2033), and Mahavatar Kalki (2035 and 2037). Produced by Kleem Productions and Hombale Films on a budget of Rs 40 crore, it was released in Hindi, Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam. If nominated, it would be the first Indian animated film in Oscar history to achieve this milestone.
When Hindu mythology meets global cinema standards, it proves Sanatana Dharma’s stories are timeless and universal. This is not just entertainment. This is cultural power asserting itself on the world stage. Indian animation is rising.
Follow for more updates.
