How a Naga film secured entry to the Oscars, alongside India’s official selection

Angh, a Naga film directed by Theja Rio, emerged victorious at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) as the inaugural recipient of the Platform Prize. This prestigious award recognizes filmmakers with innovative and bold directorial visions. The Platform Prize is a solitary juried prize presented at TIFF, aimed at honoring filmmakers who demonstrate a unique and powerful approach to filmmaking.

Angh's triumph was a result of its "refreshing perspective, strength of filmmaking, and deeply resonant portrait of a world."

To become eligible for an Oscar in the Best International Feature Film category, Angh had to secure a win at one of six prestigious international film festivals. In May 2026, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) announced revised eligibility guidelines, expanding the opportunities for international feature films to be considered for Oscars.

These guidelines include six prestigious film festivals: the Platform Prize at TIFF (Canada), the Golden Bear for Best Film at the Berlin International Film Festival (Germany), the Busan Best Film Award at the Busan International Film Festival (Korea), the Palme d'Or at Cannes Film Festival (France), the World Cinema Grand Jury Prize at Sundance Film Festival (USA), and the Golden Lion at the Venice International Film Festival (Italy).