June 27, 2025: In a major recognition of Indian cinematic talent, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) has extended invitations to Ayushmann Khurrana and Kamal Haasan to join its exclusive group of Oscar voting members, according to Variety.
This year, 534 distinguished artists and industry professionals have been invited, including recent Oscar winner Kieran Culkin and notable stars like Mikey Madison, Ariana Grande, Jeremy Strong, and Sebastian Stan. The inclusion of Kamal Haasan and Ayushmann reflects the Academy’s ongoing push to embrace global diversity and acknowledge international contributions to cinema.
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Kamal Haasan, a veteran with over three decades in Indian cinema, was most recently seen in Thug Life directed by Mani Ratnam. Ayushmann Khurrana, known for films like Vicky Donor, Andhadhun, Article 15, and Bala, has long been praised for choosing socially relevant and critically acclaimed roles.
If all invitees accept, the Academy’s total membership would rise to 11,120, including 10,143 with voting rights. This new batch includes members from 60 countries outside the U.S., strengthening the Oscars’ global reach.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang said in a statement, “This year’s class embodies the diversity and global breadth of today’s film community, and their inclusion will continue to enrich the Academy’s mission and work.”
Invitees will join one of the Academy’s 19 branches (or become Associates, who don’t vote but are recognized for their contributions). Some individuals, like Smriti Mundhra and Coralie Fargeat, were invited to multiple branches and must choose one upon acceptance.
Notable global names on the invite list include Jason Momoa, Stephen Graham, Dave Bautista, and many more.