For a Kannada film to even be considered for India’s Oscar entry is an honour: Ravi Basrur

The Kannada film Veera Chandrahasa was one of 24 films in contention for India’s official entry to the 2026 Oscars. While the selection committee ultimately chose Homebound to represent the country, the Kannada film’s director Ravi Basrur states that this inclusion on the shortlist itself is a win for the state. The director, known for his work as a music director in blockbusters like KGF and Salaar, stepped into the director’s role with this film. Released in April this year, Veera Chandrahasa introduces audiences to the world of Yakshagana, a popular folk theatre form of Karnataka. Ravi says, “When I made the film, my only intention was to promote Yakshagana and the culture around it. The film’s inclusion on the shortlist was surprising, and I am thankful to the jury.” The director says he received the news while at a Yakshagana event, surrounded by 400 artists. “When I told the artists that the film was a contender for the official entry from India to the Oscars, there was complete celebration,” he adds.

‘Wonderful to know that people are recognising Karnataka’s art forms’

Acknowledging that his film’s shortlisting by an Indian jury was a win, he says, “It is wonderful to know that people are recognising Karnataka’s art forms and cultures from across the globe. However, it is disheartening that when films like these are released, our own people often do not appreciate them. But when the same is recognised by an international organisation or made by an international filmmaker, it becomes a success.”