The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has released its list of films eligible for the Best Animated Feature category at the 2026 Oscars, and India has secured a major spot with Mahavatar Narsimha. The Academy confirmed that the film is officially competing against 35 international titles, marking a significant moment for Indian animation on the global stage.
Mahavatar Narsimha joins an extensive roster of high-profile contenders including The Bad Guys 2, Chainsaw Man: The Movie – Reze Arc, Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle, KPop Demon Hunters, and others. The film has already made notable waves at the domestic box office, and its inclusion in the Oscar eligibility lineup reinforces its growing international impact.
Rooted in the legend of Narasimha, the fourth avatar of Vishnu, the film blends mythology with a stylised, high-fantasy visual identity. The story follows the rise of the asura king Hiranyakashyap, who, empowered by a boon from Lord Brahma, assumes control over heaven, earth, and hell. His authoritarian rule is challenged by the unwavering devotion of his young son Prahlad, whose faith in Vishnu repeatedly saves him from attempts on his life.
The narrative builds toward Narasimha’s arrival, a dramatic turning point in which Vishnu manifests as a fierce protector to end Hiranyakashyap’s tyranny and restore balance to the cosmos. The film’s world-building, thematic depth, and cinematic scale have contributed to its cultural and commercial resonance.
Mahavatar Narsimha also serves as the launchpad for an ambitious decade-long animated cinematic universe. A post-credit announcement confirmed the next installment, Mahavatar Parshuram, set for release in 2027.
Its presence among this year’s Oscar-eligible films signals a shift in how Indian mythological storytelling is positioned on the world stage. While official nominations are yet to be announced, Mahavatar Narsimha’s qualification alone marks a significant step forward for Indian animation, highlighting the industry’s expanding capabilities and global relevance.
