KATHMANDU: Nepal has recommended the film Anjila for the International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards (Oscars).
The decision was announced Thursday by Nepal’s International Feature Film Selection Committee under the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Two films, Anjila and Gunyu Cholo, had applied for consideration. The committee ultimately selected Anjila, directed by Milan Chams, citing its technical strength, narrative presentation, emotional depth of characters, and artistic craftsmanship.
Released in 2025, Anjila became one of the year’s biggest box-office successes in Nepal. The film is based on the life of national women’s football player Anjila Tumbapo Subba and received widespread acclaim for its storytelling and performances.
While the committee nominates one film annually for Oscar consideration, a recommendation is not the only pathway to participation. A Nepali film’s U.S. distributor may also apply directly, provided the film has had at least a seven-day theatrical or OTT release in the United States.
In past years, several Nepali narrative and short films have entered the Oscar race through such routes.
The 98th Academy Awards will be held on March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. A shortlist of 15 films in the International Feature category will be announced on December 16, 2025, with the final nominees revealed on January 22, 2026.
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