Vishal Bhardwaj, A. Sreekar Prasad Join Oscar Voting Body

LOS ANGELES/NEW DELHI — The global influence of Indian cinema has reached a new milestone as the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced on June 24, 2026, that it has extended invitations to 529 film professionals worldwide to join its voting body. Among the new inductees are several prominent figures from India, including filmmaker-composer Vishal Bhardwaj and multiple National Award-winning editor A. Sreekar Prasad.

This move marks a continued push by the Academy to diversify its ranks and broaden international representation. If all invitees accept, the total membership of the film organization will rise to 11,319, including 10,338 voting members. Membership in the Academy is widely regarded as one of the highest honors in the film industry, providing professionals with the authority to participate in selecting Oscar nominees and winners across various categories.

Strengthening Indian Representation

The 2026 membership class features a strong Indian cohort, reflecting the country's growing contribution to global storytelling. Alongside Bhardwaj—who was invited to the Music branch—and Prasad (Film Editors branch), the list includes:

• Deepa Bhatia: Acclaimed editor known for Taare Zameen Par and Kai Po Che.

• Eka Lakhani: Costume designer noted for her work on Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani and Ponniyin Selvan.

• Dilip Shankar: Casting director recognized for his work on the Oscar-bound Last Film Show.

Other India-linked professionals invited include animation artist Avneet Kaur, documentary filmmaker Shalini Kantayya, and production and technology experts Farah Khan and Rajesh Ramachandran. These professionals will be assigned to branches corresponding to their specific areas of expertise, such as Casting Directors, Music, or Film Editors.

Global Diversity and Academy Evolution

The Academy has been actively expanding its membership base over the past decade to address historical imbalances. According to figures released by the organization, 42% of the new invitees are women, and 56% belong to underrepresented communities. Furthermore, 53% of the 2026 class come from 60 countries and territories outside the United States, signaling a clear shift toward a more globalized perspective in cinema recognition.

"We are delighted to invite this remarkable group of film artists and professionals from around the world to join the Academy," said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor in a joint statement. They noted that the selection is based on professional qualifications and a commitment to representation, inclusion, and equity.

Official Sources

The announcement was officially published by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences on Wednesday. All figures regarding membership growth, demographic breakdowns, and the list of invitees were corroborated by official press releases and regulatory data shared by the Academy.

"Organizers stated that this year’s exceptionally talented class has made significant contributions to our global movie industry, and through their commitment to filmmaking, they will play a vital role in the future of the Academy Awards."

Why It Matters

For Indian cinema, this expansion of voting power is a significant boost to its global stature. By having more Indian voices within the Academy’s voting body, there is a greater possibility for diverse international perspectives to influence the nomination process for the world's most prestigious film awards. For the individual professionals, this invitation serves as professional recognition of their decades of craft, granting them a seat at the table where the global cinematic agenda is set.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Global Invitees: 529 film professionals invited to the 2026 membership class.

• Indian Notable Invitees: Vishal Bhardwaj, A. Sreekar Prasad, Deepa Bhatia, Eka Lakhani, and Dilip Shankar.

• Voting Rights: Upon acceptance and payment of dues, members gain full voting privileges for the Oscars.

• Academy Growth: If all accept, the Academy will total 11,319 members, with 10,338 voting members.

• Upcoming Ceremony: The 99th Academy Awards are scheduled for March 14, 2027.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What does it mean to be invited to the Academy?

Invitation to the Academy is a prestigious recognition of an artist's contribution to cinema. Once members accept and pay dues, they gain voting rights to nominate and select winners for the Academy Awards.

2. How does the voting process work?

Members vote within their respective branches for nominations and can vote across all categories for the final winners, depending on Academy regulations.

3. Are there other Indians already in the Academy?

Yes, the Academy has been inducting Indian professionals for several years. Recent invitees include Kamal Haasan, Ayushmann Khurrana, and filmmaker Payal Kapadia.

4. When will the next Oscars be held?

The 99th Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on March 14, 2027, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles.

Source: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Official Press Release, Variety Membership Report, ANI News