Oscar 2024: Shabana Azmi, SS Rajamouli, Ritesh Sidhwani, Ravi Varman New Academy Members

Veteran actor Shabana Azmi, “RRR” director SS Rajamouli, producer Ritesh Sidhwani, and noted cinematographer Ravi Varman are invited this year by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to be part of 487 new members.

In a statement on its website, the Academy on late Tuesday night said the list includes artists and executives who have distinguished themselves by their contributions to theatrical motion pictures.

Shabana Azmi is a stalwart in both Indian and international cinema is invited to join the Actors branch. She has starred in over 140 Hindi films and 12 international productions.

Rajamouli, the man behind “RRR” which became the first Indian feature production to win an Academy Award in 2023, has been included in the Director’s branch.

Independent filmmaker Rima Das, known for acclaimed titles such as “Tora’s Husband” and “Village Rockstars”, is also joining Rajamouli in the Director’s branch.

Renowned producer Sidhwani, who has “Gully Boy” and “Dil Chahta Hai” to his credit, will be part of the Producers branch.

Director of photography Varman is to join the Cinematographers branch. He is known for “Ponniyin Selvan: Part Two”, “Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela”, and Shankar’s upcoming “Indian 2”.

Rama Rajamouli, “RRR” costume designer and wife of Rajamouli, has been invited to the Costume Designers branch. Choreographer Prem Rakshith, who created the complex but perfectly synthesised moves in the best original song Oscar winner “Naatu Naatu” from “RRR” is also be a member.

Sheetal Sharma, known for her work on movies such as “Gangubai Kathiawadi” and “Kesari”, will join Rama Rajamouli in the section.

Documentary filmmaker Hemal Trivedi  is part of the Documentary branch.

A R Rahman, Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Suriya, Vidya Balan, Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Ali Fazal, Aditya Chopra, Guneet Monga, Reema Kagti, Ekta Kapoor, and Shobha Kapoor are already members of the Academy.