Randeep Hooda’s biopic Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, which was released on March 22, 2024, is in the spotlight after claims emerged that the film has been sent to the Oscars. Producer Sandeep Singh shared the news on social media, stating that the film has been officially sent to the prestigious awards. However, questions are now being raised about how this submission occurred, given that the Film Federation of India (FFI) has already announced Lapata Ladies as India’s official entry.
What Did the Producer Say?
Sandeep Singh, the producer of Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, took to Instagram to express his gratitude. He posted, “Honoured and humbled! Our film Swatantrya Veer Savarkar has been officially sent to the Oscars.” This statement has caused some confusion, as many assumed the Film Federation of India had selected the film. Singh also thanked the FFI for its recognition.
However, the FFI had announced that Kiran Rao’s film Lapata Ladies would be India’s official entry for the Oscars, leaving many wondering how Swatantrya Veer Savarkar fits into the picture.
Self-Submission at the Oscars?
In an attempt to clarify, NewsNCR reached out to Sandeep Singh, asking if the FFI had officially selected Swatantrya Veer Savarkar for the Oscars. Singh confirmed this but did not clarify how it was possible given Lapata Ladies had been chosen. Sources later suggested that the makers of Swatantrya Veer Savarkar may have submitted the film independently, a process often referred to as “self-submission,” which allows filmmakers to send their work for consideration without being the official entry.
FFI’s Statement on Official Entry
Jury head Jahnu Barua explained the selection of Lapata Ladies, highlighting that the jury focused on choosing a film that represents India’s culture, social systems, and “Indianness.” Barua added, “The jury must select the best film from those submitted, and Lapata Ladies stood out.”
This indicates that while Swatantrya Veer Savarkar might have been submitted for consideration by its makers, the FFI’s official entry remains Lapata Ladies.
