Oscars 2024: Mother India To Lagaan; Watch These Academy Awards Nominated Indian Movies Till Date On OTT
March 7, 2024Indian Movies Shine at the Oscars: Where to Watch Them on OTT Platforms
The upcoming 96th Academy Awards will be a night of glitz and glamour, celebrating the best in cinema from around the world. While blockbusters dominate the headlines this year, Indian movies and documentaries have also garnered recognition at the Oscars, showcasing the rich tapestry of Indian cinema to a global audience.
This year, we take a look at some of the outstanding Indian films that have received Oscar nominations throughout history, along with where you can stream them on various OTT platforms (Over-the-top streaming services).
1. RRR (Streaming on Netflix, Zee5, and Hotstar):
This action-packed period drama took India by storm and became a massive international success. Starring the dynamic duo of Ram Charan and Jr NTR, the film tells the fictional story of two legendary Indian freedom fighters, Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheem. It also features notable actors like Ajay Devgn, Alia Bhatt, and Hollywood stars Olivia Morris, Ray Stevenson, and Alison Doody. Notably, the film’s energetic song “Naatu Naatu” won the Oscar for Best Original Song at the 95th Academy Awards.
2. Mother India (Streaming on Prime Video):
This classic film from 1957 tells the tale of Radha, a strong-willed woman who faces numerous challenges after her husband’s death. Directed by Mehboob Khan, the film stars Nargis, Sunil Dutt, and Rajendra Kumar. “Mother India” received a nomination for Best International Feature Film, showcasing the power and resilience of women on the global stage.
3. An Encounter With Faces (Available on YouTube):
This short documentary film, directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, takes viewers into the lives of children living in an orphanage. Nominated for the Academy Award for Documentary Short Subject in 1978, the film offers a glimpse into the struggles and hopes of these young individuals.
4. Salaam Bombay (Available on YouTube):
This poignant film tells the story of Krishna, a young boy who finds himself living on the streets of Mumbai. Directed by Mira Nair, the film stars Shafiq Syed and Raghuvir Yadav and portrays the realities of poverty and survival in a bustling city. “Salaam Bombay” received a nomination for Best International Feature Film, raising awareness about social issues in India.
5. Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India (Streaming on Netflix):
Set in 1893, this historical drama features Aamir Khan as Bhuvan, a farmer who leads his village in a cricket match against their oppressive British rulers. The film explores themes of resistance, unity, and cultural identity. “Lagaan” received a nomination for Best Foreign Language Film, showcasing the power of sports as a tool for social change.
6. The White Tiger (Streaming on Netflix):
This adaptation of Aravind Adiga’s novel tells the story of Balram, a young man who escapes poverty by using his cunning wit to climb the social ladder. Starring Adarsh Gourav, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Rajkummar Rao, the film received a nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay, highlighting the complexities of social mobility in contemporary India.
7. The Elephant Whisperers (Streaming on Netflix):
This heartwarming documentary showcases the unique bond between a couple and an orphaned baby elephant. The film, directed by Kartiki Gonsalves and Shaunak Sen, won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Short Film at the 95th Academy Awards, marking a historic moment for Indian cinema.
8. All That Breathes (Streaming on JioCinema):
This captivating documentary focuses on two brothers dedicated to rescuing and caring for injured birds in Delhi. Directed by Shaunak Sen, the film received a nomination for Best Documentary Feature, raising awareness about environmental conservation and the human-animal connection.
9. Writing with Fire (Streaming on Hulu):
This inspiring documentary follows Meera, a journalist from a marginalized community in India, who challenges societal norms to become a voice for the voiceless. Directed by Sushmit Ghosh and Rintu Thomas, the film received a nomination for Best Documentary Feature, highlighting the power of journalism and the fight for social justice.
This list showcases just a few of the many Indian films and documentaries that have captivated audiences and earned recognition on a global stage. So, grab your popcorn, choose your favorite OTT platform, and embark on a cinematic journey through the diverse and compelling world of Indian cinema.
