Reel Esteem: Kamal, Ayushmann, Payal Join the Oscars’ Creative Cast

In a first for Indian cinema, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has extended a record number of invitations to Indian artists to join its exclusive fraternity. Included in the 534 international invitees to the Oscars Class of 2025 are cinema legends Kamal Haasan, Ayushmann Khurrana, and Cannes Grand Prix-winning filmmaker Payal Kapadia.

Spotlight on India

Kamal Haasan and Ayushmann Khurrana have been invited to join the Actors' Branch as a testament to their diverse contributions to Indian cinema.

Academy Award-winning filmmaker Payal Kapadia, whose film All We Imagine As Light won awards, has been invited to the Writers' Branch, which is a testament to India's growing presence in global arthouse narrative.

A few other Indian visitors include casting director Karan Mally, cinematographer Ranabir Das, costume designer Maxima Basu, and documentary filmmaker Smriti Mundhra.

Global Canvas

The 2025 guest list is spread across 60 countries and territories and 41 percent women and 45 percent underrepresented groups.

The class contains 91 Academy Award nominees and 26 winners, and also features actors like Ariana Grande, Jeremy Strong, Kieran Culkin, and Jason Momoa.

The Academy reiterated its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and global representation in membership expansion.

Membership Mechanics

They are usually backed by two present members of the Academy from their own branch.

Oscar nominees are automatically eligible for membership during the year of their nomination.

The Academy now has more than 11,000 members, more than 10,000 of these eligible to vote for Oscars.

Why It Matters

This Indian representation wave is reflective of the broader shift in the Academy's global outlook and India's increased stature in world cinema.

The participation of artists from every field—acting and writing to costume and cinematography—is undoubtedly a reflection of the richness and diversity of Indian talent. 

Sources: NDTV, India Today, The Hindu, Mashable India, Daily Pioneer, MSN News