Oscars 2025: SS Rajamouli, Shabana Azmi Get Prestigious Academy Invites

SS Rajamouli, known for 'Baahubali' and 'RRR', along with his wife Rama Rajamouli, veteran actress Shabana Azmi, and producer Ritesh Sidhwani, have been invited to join the prestigious Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences as part of the Class of 2024.

The filmmaker's 'RRR' has won the Best Original Song at the Oscars 2023 for its track 'Naatu Naatu'. Starring Ram Charan, Jr NTR, Alia Bhatt, and Ajay Devgn, 'RRR' made cinematic history.

This year, the Academy has extended invitations to 487 new members, including 71 Oscar nominees and 19 winners. Among the invitees are cinematographer Ravi Varman, filmmaker Rima Das, and choreographer Prem Rakshith. The Academy's total membership will reach 10,910 if all invitations are accepted, with over 9,000 members eligible to vote.

The Class of 2024 reflects diversity with 44% women, 41% from underrepresented ethnic/racial backgrounds, and represents 56 countries and territories outside the US, according to the Academy's press release.

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

Upon accepting membership, invitees across various branches will need to select one specific branch.

On the work front, SS Rajamouli is preparing for his next movie which will star Mahesh Babu. It is a jungle adventure.

Whereas, Shabana Azmi was recently seen in 'Ghoomer'. She did a role in 'Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani' alongside Alia Bhatt, Ranveer Singh, Jaya Bachchan, and Dharmendra, released in 2023.