Mahavatar Narasimha enters Oscar race
Hombale Films’ Mahavatar Narasimha, which emerged as one of this year’s major commercial hits, has entered the race for the 2026 Academy Awards in the Best Animated Feature Film category. The film is among 35 international titles selected for the longlist, marking the first time an Indian animated production has reached this stage.
Box-office success strengthens film’s global visibility
Released on July 25 without major pre-release expectations, the animation feature opened to positive reviews and strong word-of-mouth. Made on a budget of ₹30–40 crore, the film went on to earn more than ₹300 crore across markets, setting new records in the pan-India category.
Hombale Films, known for Salaar and the KGF franchise, produced the film.
Mythological narrative draws wide audience
Mahavatar Narasimha is based on the legend of Maha Vishnu’s Narasimha avatar. According to the storyline, the demon king Hiranyakashipu obtains a boon from Brahma ensuring he cannot be killed by any creature created by him, at any time, or by any weapon. Believing himself invincible, he claims supremacy over all three worlds and suppresses dharma on earth.
Conflict arises when his son Prahlada becomes an ardent devotee of Maha Vishnu. The film explores Hiranyakashipu’s attempts to kill Prahlada, Vishnu’s interventions to protect his devotee, and the circumstances leading to the emergence of the Narasimha avatar and the eventual slaying of Hiranyakashipu.
Industry analysts said that if the film progresses further and secures a nomination, it would be a landmark moment for Indian animation.
