Why Indian Films Struggle at the Oscars: Aamir Khan vs Shah Rukh Khan Debate

The challenges faced by Indian films at the Oscars have sparked fresh debate, with actors Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh Khan presenting contrasting views. The discussion centers around what Indian cinema needs to do to secure more nominations in the Best International Feature category, where the last Indian entry, Aamir’s Lagaan, was nominated in 2001.

Aamir Khan on Lagaan and Oscar Nominations for Indian Cinema

In a recent interview with BBC Asian Network, Aamir Khan reflected on Lagaan’s journey to becoming India’s last nominee in the Best International Feature category. Despite its three-hour runtime and six-song soundtrack, Lagaan connected with international audiences due to its emotional storytelling. Aamir emphasized that a film’s emotional depth, not its format, determines its success with Academy voters.

Aamir acknowledged the stiff competition in the category, where only one film per country competes with entries from cinematic powerhouses like France, Iran, and Germany. He pointed out that earning a nomination is a significant achievement given the quality of films globally.

Shah Rukh Khan Comments on Oscars

Shah Rukh Khan, in an earlier interview, suggested that the structure of Indian cinema—long runtimes and elaborate song sequences—might hinder its chances at the Oscars. He described Lagaan as a “wonderfully made combination of art and commercial cinema” and proposed that Indian films adapt to global standards to align with Academy preferences.

Aamir Khan vs Shah Rukh Khan Debate

Countering Shah Rukh Khan’s comments on Oscars, Aamir argued that films like Lagaan prove Indian cinema doesn’t need to abandon its unique style to be recognized. Instead, he believes the focus should remain on crafting stories that emotionally resonate with global audiences.

India’s History in the Best International Feature Category

India has had only three films nominated in the Best International Feature category:

• Mother India (1957)
• Salaam Bombay! (1988)
• Lagaan (2001)

While no other Indian films have been nominated in this category since Lagaan, recent years have seen success in other categories. RRR won Best Original Song for Naatu Naatu, and The Elephant Whisperers earned Best Documentary Short. Additionally, documentaries like Writing with Fire and All That Breathes have garnered nominations.

Oscar Nominations for Indian Cinema: The Path Ahead

The Aamir Khan-Shah Rukh Khan debate underscores the tension between preserving India’s cinematic identity and adapting to global expectations. While some argue for changes in format, others, like Aamir, believe in the power of storytelling that transcends cultural boundaries.

As the discussion continues, one thing is clear: whether through adaptations or emotional storytelling, Indian cinema will remain in pursuit of its next big moment at the Oscars.