Aamir Khan has addressed the reasons behind the absence of Indian films from the Oscars' Best International Feature category. In a discussion with BBC Asian Network, he was informed of Shah Rukh Khan's perspective on the matter, to which Aamir expressed his disagreement. Notably, no film has received a nomination in this category since Aamir's acclaimed 2001 film Lagaan.

Aamir stated that India does not receive Oscar nominations annually.

Aamir discussed the challenges associated with obtaining an Oscar nomination, emphasizing the inherent difficulties of the process. He remarked, "Many overlook that this is arguably the most competitive category at the Oscars. When vying for Best Film, one is contending with a finite selection of films. However, in the Best International Feature category, the competition includes the finest film from each participating country. This places you in a field with 80 other films. Securing a nomination from such a vast pool is a significant achievement. The infrequency of nominations for India can be attributed to the presence of exceptional films from countries like Iran, Germany, and France, among others. Competing in such an esteemed company makes a nomination a remarkable accomplishment."

Shah Rukh's comments on the matter from a few years prior.

A few years ago, Shah Rukh Khan expressed his views on the matter. During a past interview, he described "Lagaan" as a "fusion of art and commercial cinema" and praised it as "a remarkably crafted film." He emphasized the necessity for Indian cinema to "adapt the structure of our films." Additionally, Shah Rukh remarked, "If I am invited to your gathering, I must adhere to the dress code you specify. I cannot arrive in my style, which consists of two and a half hours and five songs. We need to evolve from that."

Aamir holds a different opinion from Shah Rukh.

In response to the matter, Aamir stated in a recent interview, “I do not concur. I do not concur. Lagaan had a runtime of three hours and 42 minutes and featured six songs. Yet, it received a nomination. For a film to be nominated, it must resonate deeply with the members. Lagaan demonstrates that a lengthy film with musical elements does not deter Academy members. In my view, the quality of the work and its ability to evoke emotions are what truly matter. Ultimately, the members are human beings as well. One must acknowledge that other nations are also producing films of equal merit.”

Indian cinema at the Academy Awards

In the annals of Indian cinema, only three films—Mother India, Salaam Bombay, and Lagaan—have received nominations in the International Feature category. Recently, RRR was awarded the Best Original Song, while Elephant Whisperers secured the Best Documentary Short accolade. Additionally, Writing with Fire and All That Breathes received nominations in the Best Documentary Feature category.

About Lagaan

Lagaan (2001) is a monumental period sports drama crafted by Ashutosh Gowariker, who served as both the writer and director. The film features performances by Aamir Khan, Gracy Singh, Rachel Shelley, and Paul Blackthorne. It narrates the story of villagers in India who are confronted by a haughty officer of the British Indian Army, who challenges them to a cricket match. With the villagers already struggling under the weight of exorbitant taxes and years of drought, the officer proposes that the outcome of the game will determine whether they must pay their debts.

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