With the process of selecting India’s official entry to the 94th Academy Awards kicking off on Thursday in Kolkata, two Bollywood films have been shortlisted yet. Out of the 14 shortlisted movies that will be screened and reviewed by a panel of 15 members over the next few days, Vicky Kaushal starrer Sardar Udham and Vidya Balan’s Sherni, have managed to make the cut. While the movie screenings are held at the Bijoli cinema in Bhowanipore, Kolkata, the 15 member jury is headed by maverick filmmaker Shaji N Karun.

While last year, India’s official entry to the Oscars was Lijo Jose Pellissery’s Jalikattu starring Antony Varghese, Chemban Vinod Jose and Sabumon Abdusamad, the critically acclaimed Malayalam action failed to make an impact at the prestigious global event. But with other spectacular regional movies like Nayattu (Malayalam) and Mandela (Tamil) making it to the list of 14 films shortlisted for India’s official entry to the 94th Academy Award, all eyes are now set on the jury and their decision.

Filmmaker Shoojit Sircar’s historical biopic, Sardar Udham, which is based on the life of revolutionary freedom fighter Udham Singh, starring Vicky Kaushal, has been on the receiving end of praises flowing in from all directions as it scored a rating of 9.2 on IMDb. The lead actor took to social media to share his excitement and even thanked the audience for appreciating the film with a heartfelt note. “9.2!!! Aap sab ne toh Udham macha diya. Heartfelt gratitude for all the love pouring in for #SardarUdham,” Vicky wrote.

Meanwhile, veteran actor Neeraj Kabi, who shares screen space with Vidya Balan in Sherni, was quizzed about the film being selected as India’s official entry for the Oscars. Sharing his views on the same, Kabi had said, “I know that we’ve all put so much effort into this film. This has been a fruit of labour, so let’s just wait and see what comes out of it. I cannot say anything right now, whether it is Oscar-worthy or if it will win awards.”

According to reports, the 94th Academy Awards will take place at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California, on March 27, 2022.

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