The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences recently extended invitations to 487 new members, including notable Indian celebrities such as SS Rajamouli, Shabana Azmi, Rama Rajamouli, Ritesh Sidhwani, and others. These prestigious invitations aim to include a diverse range of talents in the Class of 2024. Among the invitees, 71 are Oscar nominees, including 19 winners. Additionally, the invitations were extended to cinematographer Ravi Varman, filmmaker Rima Das, and Naatu Naatu choreographer Prem Rakshith.
If all the invitees accept the invitations, the Academy’s total membership will rise to 10,910, with over 9,000 eligible to vote. The Academy’s press release highlighted the diversity of the Class of 2024, which comprises 44% women, 41% from underrepresented ethnic/racial communities, and represents 56 countries and territories outside the United States.
Academy Leaders Celebrate New Class
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang expressed their enthusiasm for the new class of members. “We are thrilled to welcome this year’s class of new members to the Academy. These remarkably talented artists and professionals from around the world have made a significant impact on our filmmaking community,” they stated.
Those invited across multiple branches will need to select one branch upon accepting membership, ensuring they are aligned with the Academy’s structure and voting process.
Indian Celebrities’ Recent and Upcoming Projects
SS Rajamouli, known for his exceptional work in Indian cinema, is currently working on a jungle adventure featuring superstar Mahesh Babu. Rajamouli’s recent directorial success, “RRR,” made history by winning the Best Original Song for its track “Naatu Naatu” at the Oscars 2023. The film starred Ram Charan, Jr NTR, Alia Bhatt, and Ajay Devgn.
Shabana Azmi, another esteemed invitee, was last seen in the film “Ghoomer.” She also played a significant role in “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani,” which hit theaters in 2023. The movie featured Alia Bhatt and Ranveer Singh in the lead roles, along with Jaya Bachchan and Dharmendra.
The inclusion of these talented Indian artists highlights the Academy’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating global contributions to the film industry. As the Class of 2024 prepares to join the ranks, the diversity and talent within the Academy continue to grow, promising a vibrant future for cinema worldwide.