Indian Animated Film Mahavatar Narsimha Eligible for 98th Academy Awards

Ashwin Kumar’s mythological animated feature, Mahavatar Narsimha, has been named among 35 films eligible for the Animated Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards, scheduled for March 16, 2026. The official shortlist will be revealed on December 16.

The film qualified following a commercial theatrical run in the US, meeting the Academy’s requirement of at least seven consecutive days in one venue, with three screenings daily, including one between 6 pm and 10 pm.

Mahavatar Narsimha explores the story of Lord Vishnu’s avatars Varaha and Narsimha and is the first installment in a planned seven-film series. The film was produced under Ashwin Kumar’s banner in collaboration with Hombale Films, known for KGF and Kantara. Made on a budget of Rs 40 crore, it grossed over Rs 325 crore in India and Rs 400 crore worldwide, surpassing films like The Lion King (2019) and Kochadaiiyaan.

The film’s international competition includes titles like KPop Demon Hunters, Zootopia 2, Elio, Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle, and Ne Zha 2. The makers are already working on the second installment, Mahavatar Parasuram, as part of the Mahavatar Cinematic Universe.