Eklavya going to the Oscars?
When the Indian Film Federation chose Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s Eklavya as India’s official Oscar entry, sections of the industry were left flabbergasted. Even a member from the jury said, “If this is the taste of the jury, then it is better they leave the industry. Eklavya does not deserve an Oscar entry. This is a clear case of partiality.” Filmmaker Bhavna Talwar whose Dharm almost made the cut echoed the same sentiments and took the case to court. She claims that the decision to send Eklavya to the Oscars was completely biased and that all films should be given an equal chance. In mid-October, it was unsure whether India would have an Oscar entry at all amidst such immense opposition. However, it was later confirmed that Eklavya has indeed been sent to the Academy Awards for which the nominations will be revealed soon. After such a song and dance, it will be extremely ironic if the film doesn’t even get nominated.
