Ritesh Sidhwani Receives Invitation To Join Prestigious Academy Of Motion Picture Arts And Sciences

Veteran actor Shabana Azmi, "RRR" director SS Rajamouli, producer Ritesh Sidhwani, and cinematographer Ravi Varman are among the 487 new members invited by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences this year. The Academy announced on its website that these individuals have been recognised for their significant contributions to theatrical motion pictures.

The selection process focuses on professional qualifications and a commitment to representation, inclusion, and equity. Azmi, who has had a distinguished career in both Indian and international cinema, has been invited to join the Actors branch. This invitation coincides with her 50th year in the industry, having debuted in Shyam Benegal's "Ankur" (1974).

Azmi is known for her roles in films like "Godmother", "Arth", "The Reluctant Fundamentalist", "In Custody", and "Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani". She has appeared in over 140 Hindi films and 12 international productions. Rajamouli, who directed the epic period film "RRR", which won an Academy Award in 2023, joins the Directors branch. Independent filmmaker Rima Das, known for titles such as "Tora's Husband" and "Village Rockstars", will also be part of this segment.

Sidhwani, celebrated for producing movies like "Gully Boy" and "Dil Chahta Hai", will join the Producers branch. Cinematographer Varman has been invited to the Cinematographers branch; his work includes films like "Japan", "Ponniyin Selvan: Part Two", "Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela", and the upcoming "Indian 2". Costume designer Rama Rajamouli, who worked on "RRR" and is married to SS Rajamouli, will join the Costume Designers branch.

Choreographer Prem Rakshith, known for creating the dance moves in the Oscar-winning song "Naatu Naatu" from "RRR", will be part of the Production and Technology branch. Sheetal Sharma, recognised for her work on films like "Gangubai Kathiawadi" and "Kesari", will join Rama Rajamouli in the Costume Designers section. Documentary filmmaker Hemal Trivedi ("Among the Believers," "Saving Face") is included in the Documentary branch.

"We are thrilled to welcome this year's class of new members to the Academy. These remarkably talented artists and professionals from around the world have made a significant impact on our filmmaking community," said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang in a joint statement.

From India, notable existing members of the Academy include 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.

The Academy's commitment to diversity is evident through its inclusive membership selections. This year's additions reflect a broad spectrum of talent from various branches of filmmaking.