Overview
- Neeraj Ghaywan’s film is on the Academy’s 15-title shortlist for Best International Feature, with final nominations due January 22 and the ceremony set for March 15, 2026.
- Ishaan Khatter said a full love track featuring Reem Shaikh was shot but cut, adding the initial 3.5-hour edit was trimmed to about two hours to meet Oscar eligibility.
- Ghaywan confirmed CBFC-requested changes that softened some political tones, emphasizing the friendship at the film’s center remains intact.
- The director noted active campaign screenings in the US and London and praised the Film Federation of India’s support for selecting the movie as India’s official entry.
- Janhvi Kapoor won a domestic acting honor for her performance, with Ghaywan calling her the film’s emotional core, as cast members highlight its respectful, non-trivial portrayal of male friendship.