Deepika Padukone Critiques Oscars for Snubbing Indian Cinema
In a recent Instagram reel, actress Deepika Padukone voiced her concerns about the Academy Awards’ treatment of Indian films, highlighting a pattern of neglect towards deserving talent. While preparing for the Louis Vuitton show in Paris, she expressed her frustration, stating that “India has been robbed of the Oscars many times.” Her comments have reignited discussions about the recognition of Indian cinema on the global stage.
Deepika’s Emotional Connection to RRR’s Oscar Win
During the Instagram video, Deepika Padukone reflected on the significance of the Oscar win for the film RRR, directed by S.S. Rajamouli. When asked about an Oscar win that felt personal to her, she recounted the emotional moment when RRR won the award for Best Original Song for ‘Naatu Naatu’ in 2023. “I remember being in the audience, and when they announced RRR, I got emotional,” she shared. “Outside of being an Indian, I had really nothing to do with that movie, but that was a huge, huge moment. That felt very, very personal.”
While celebrating this historic achievement, Deepika did not hesitate to critique the Academy’s overall track record. She remarked, “Many, many deserving movies, I feel, have been snubbed. Whether it’s movies, whether it’s talent…” This statement underscores her belief that the Academy has overlooked numerous contributions from Indian cinema, which she feels deserve recognition.
Highlighting Snubbed Indian Gems
Deepika’s Instagram reel also served as a visual tribute to Indian films that have received critical acclaim but failed to secure Oscar nominations. Among the films highlighted were All We Imagine As Light by Payal Kapadia, Laapataa Ladies by Kiran Rao, Tumbbad by Rahi Anil Barve, and The Lunchbox by Ritesh Batra. These films are celebrated for their innovative storytelling and cultural depth, yet they have been unjustly ignored by the Academy, according to Deepika.
This powerful visual representation aims to bring attention to the rich tapestry of Indian cinema, showcasing works that reflect the country’s diverse narratives and artistic expressions. Deepika’s comments resonate with many in the industry who feel that the Academy’s recognition often skews towards mainstream narratives, leaving out significant contributions from independent filmmakers.
India’s Oscar Journey: A Mixed Legacy
The relationship between India and the Oscars has been a complex one, marked by both triumphs and disappointments. Films like Lagaan (2001) received nominations, while Slumdog Millionaire (2008)—a British film with Indian roots—won multiple Oscars. However, many critics argue that the Academy frequently overlooks the vast diversity and depth of Indian cinema, which produces over 2,000 films annually across various languages.
Despite being one of the largest film industries in the world, India’s representation at the Oscars remains disproportionately small. This ongoing dialogue about the Academy’s recognition of Indian cinema is crucial, as it highlights the need for a broader appreciation of the country’s cinematic contributions beyond mainstream narratives.
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