On February 10, 2021, The Academy of Motion Art & Sciences announced the shortlist of nine different categories for the upcoming Academy Awards, popularly known as ‘Oscars’.

Malayalam film ‘Jalikattu’ directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery’ was the official entry from India submitted for the International feature film category but unfortunately, the satirical thriller didn’t make it to the shortlist and was left out of the race. But on the brighter side ‘Bittu’ directed by Karishma Dev Dube was shortlisted for the Live-Action short film category by the Academy.

‘Bittu’ is inspired by a true story that tells a tale about a beautiful bond of friendship shared by two school friends. The film is aided by Indian Women rising a cinema collective created by Tahira Kashyap, Guneet Monga, and Ekta Kapoor. The film has also bagged the prestigious student academy award not very long ago.

Guneet Monga uploaded a snap of ‘Bittu’ being listed under the category of Live-action short film. In her caption, she wrote “It’s 4.30 am in India… am tossing & turning stress eating and texting my IWR girls thru the night and here we are !! BITTU is now shortlisted for the 93rd Academy Awards. @indianwomenrising‘s first film BITTU directed by @k.devdube … here we come Let’s do this @ektarkapoor @tahirakashyap @ruchikaakapoor @maryelista @shredevdube. So so grateful for BITTU and our incredible team… Say a little prayer and wish us luck for the next round of nominations”.

Many Bollywood celebrities’ congratulated the whole ‘Bittu’ team for its achievement including Vidya Balan, Fatima Sana Sekh, Sandhya Mridul, and many more.

The Academy has announced shortlisted names in these categories: Documentary Feature, Documentary Short Subject, International Feature Film, Makeup and Hairstyling, Music (Original Score), Music (Original Song), Animated Short Film, Live Action Short Film and Visual Effects.