Vijay Sethupathi’s Baththa and the Oscars 2028 Possibility: Murad Khetani Says the Idea Is Worth Exploring
Vijay Sethupathi’s Tamil film Baththa has attracted attention beyond its theatrical run following discussions about its possible journey to the Academy Awards. Producer Murad Khetani has spoken about the possibility of considering the film for the Oscars in 2028 during an exclusive interview with Zoom. According to the interview headline, Khetani described the idea as “worth exploring,” adding to the conversation surrounding the film’s international potential.
However, the producer’s remarks should not be interpreted as confirmation that Baththa has officially entered the Oscar race. Any submission would depend on the applicable eligibility requirements, the chosen award category and the decisions made by the film’s producers and other relevant parties.
Murad Khetani Discusses the Oscar Possibility
Murad Khetani is among the producers behind Baththa, which marks an important step in his production company Cine1 Studios’ expansion into Tamil cinema. The producer has previously backed Hindi films, including Kabir Singh and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2. His involvement in Baththa brings together a production team working across different Indian film industries.
The reported discussion about the 2028 Oscars indicates that the possibility of presenting the film to an international audience is being considered. Khetani’s description of the idea as worth exploring suggests openness to examining the opportunity, rather than announcing a confirmed awards campaign.
For now, the distinction between an ambition and an official submission remains important. A film being discussed as a potential Oscar contender does not automatically mean that it has been submitted, selected or nominated.
Atlee Has Also Expressed Oscar Ambitions for Baththa
The latest discussion follows filmmaker Atlee’s public comments about his ambition to take Baththa to the Oscars. At the film’s success event, Atlee said he wanted to see whether he could achieve that goal and indicated that he was prepared to make an effort.
Atlee also spoke about his dream of representing Tamil cinema on the international stage. Reports of his remarks were published by outlets including NDTV and The Indian Express.
His comments helped bring further attention to Baththa and the possibility of taking a Tamil film to a global awards platform. The film’s Oscar prospects, however, remain separate from the filmmaker’s personal ambition. An awards campaign would require concrete decisions about eligibility, submission and promotion.
About Vijay Sethupathi’s Baththa
Baththa stars Vijay Sethupathi in the lead role and is written and directed by Balaji Tharaneetharan. The film is set in 1980s Madras and centres on an unusual encounter between a local gangster and a young boy. The story explores how this unexpected situation affects the characters and their relationships.
Lijomol Jose is also part of the cast. The film’s music and background score are composed by Sai Abhyankkar, while cinematography is handled by Selvakumar S. K. Editing is credited to R. Kalaivanan.
The production brings together Cine1 Studios, A for Apple Studios and Star Studio18. Murad Khetani, Priya Atlee, Alok Jain and Ajit Andhare are among the producers associated with the project. The film was released in theatres in October 2026.
The story’s local setting and cultural background are part of its identity. Whether these elements could help the film connect with international awards audiences is a question that would depend on the film’s artistic reception, eligibility and the strategy adopted by its team.
What Would an Oscar Campaign Require?
The Academy Awards follow specific rules for eligibility and consideration. A film’s presence in media discussions or a producer’s interest in international recognition does not guarantee entry into the competition. The production team would need to determine the appropriate category and ensure that the film meets the relevant requirements.
For the 2028 awards cycle, the official rules and calendar published by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences would be the key references for any confirmed submission plans. The Academy’s official website provides information about the awards and eligibility procedures.
If the team decides to pursue international awards recognition, it could involve a carefully planned campaign, publicity and screenings for industry audiences. However, no specific campaign details should be assumed unless the producers announce them.
Why the Discussion Matters for Tamil Cinema
The possibility of Baththa reaching an international awards platform has generated interest because it reflects the wider ambition of filmmakers and producers to bring Indian regional-language films to global audiences.
Tamil cinema has a distinct storytelling tradition, with films often drawing on regional settings, social experiences and cultural details. A film that connects with audiences beyond its home market can introduce those perspectives to viewers who may be unfamiliar with the language or setting.
Atlee’s comments and Khetani’s reported response have therefore placed Baththa in a broader conversation about international recognition for Tamil films. At the same time, an Oscar aspiration should not be confused with a prediction of success. The Academy’s selection process is competitive, and any outcome remains uncertain until official announcements are made.
What Happens Next?
The key question is whether the producers will take concrete steps to explore an Oscar submission for Baththa in 2028. Khetani’s reported remarks indicate that the idea is worth considering, while Atlee has already spoken publicly about his ambition to take the film to the Oscars.
Until the production team confirms its plans, the film’s status should be described as a possibility rather than an official contender. Updates from the producers and the Academy will be important in determining whether the discussion progresses to a formal submission.
For Vijay Sethupathi and the team behind Baththa, the conversation has brought additional attention to the film and its potential reach. Whether that interest leads to an awards campaign remains to be seen.
