Filmmaker SS Rajamouli, a name synonymous with groundbreaking cinema, has added another feather to his illustrious cap. Known for his monumental works like the Baahubali series and RRR, Rajamouli has been officially invited by The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences to join the prestigious Class of 2024.
This recognition extends to his wife, Rama Rajamouli, and celebrated dance choreographer Prem Rakshith, who captivated audiences worldwide with the iconic Naatu Naatu choreography. This official invite is a testament to their extraordinary contributions to cinema and their influential impact on the global stage.
Joining them is Shabana Azmi, a five-time National Award winner, invited to the Actors branch. The Academy’s list of 487 new members, announced on its website, emphasizes their commitment to representation, inclusion, and equity. This year’s invitees include 71 Oscar nominees, with 19 winners among them.
The Academy’s decision to include Rajamouli and his team underlines their appreciation for Indian cinema’s growing influence. The invites offer these luminaries the opportunity to vote in upcoming award selections, potentially opening new doors for Indian filmmakers.
The historical epic RRR, set in the 1920s, chronicles the fictional adventures of Indian freedom fighters Komaram Bheem and Alluri Sitarama Raju, portrayed by Jr NTR and Ram Charan. The film gained international acclaim when composer M.M. Keerawani and lyricist Chandrabose won the Oscar for Best Original Song with Naatu Naatu in 2023. This milestone was a significant moment for Indian cinema, showcasing its creative prowess on a global platform.
RRR also featured stellar performances from Alison Doody, Olivia Morris, Ray Stevenson, Ajay Devgn, and Alia Bhatt. Produced by D.V.V. Danayya under the DVV Entertainment banner, the film is currently available for streaming in Telugu on Zee5 with English subtitles.
Looking ahead, SS Rajamouli is gearing up for his next ambitious project, tentatively titled SSMB 29, starring Superstar Mahesh Babu. Early speculations suggest that this film will revolve around the Hindu epic Ramayana, focusing on the character of Lord Hanuman and set against the exotic backdrop of African jungles.
The Academy’s invite to Rajamouli, Rama Rajamouli, and Prem Rakshith is a remarkable recognition of their contributions to cinema, promising exciting possibilities for the future of Indian filmmaking on the world stage.
