‘Barir Nam Shahana’ secures spot on Oscar qualifying list

Bangladeshi cinema has scored a proud milestone as Barir Nam Shahana makes it onto the Oscars’ official qualifying list in the International Feature Film category – placing the country alongside 86 global contenders in one of the world’s most prestigious cinematic races.

Each year, the Oscars turn into a grand celebration of world cinema, and this time the Academy’s freshly announced lineup spans documentary, animation, and international feature films – offering a vivid portrait of global cultures, languages, and stories.

This year’s competition includes more than 300 films from around the world, ranging from war narratives and historical epics to human rights stories, intimate personal journeys, and bold animations that push the boundaries of imagination.

In the International Feature Film category, Bangladesh stands proudly beside major entries like Norway’s Sentimental Values, Spain’s Sirat, Brazil’s Secret Envoy, and Tunisia’s Voice of Hind Rajab – each reflecting the soul of its homeland.

Animation is fiercer than ever, with 35 titles battling for attention, including global heavyweights like Zootopia 2, Korea’s hyped K-Pop Monster Slayer, and Japan’s powerful contender Eternal Palace.

Meanwhile, the documentary section has broken records with 201 entries, featuring gripping explorations of war zones, humanitarian crises, political conflicts, and deeply personal struggles. 

Works like Ai Weiwei’s Turandot and Age of Discovery are already generating global buzz.

Shortlists for all categories will be revealed in December, with final Oscar nominations set for January 22.

Barir Nam Shahana, directed by Lisa Gazi and produced by Gupi Bagha Productions Limited and Kamala Collective, follows the powerful journey of a woman fighting to rebuild her life after heartbreak. 

Anan Siddika stars as Deepa, alongside Jayant Chatterjee, Lutfar Rahman George, Iresh Zaker, Kazi Ruma, and Kamrunnahar Munni. The screenplay is crafted by Siddika with director Gazi.

Bangladesh now waits with hopeful excitement – cheering on Barir Nam Shahana as it steps onto the world’s grandest cinematic stage.