Vishal Bhardwaj Invited to Join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

As the Oscars season approaches, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has invited 529 new members, including renowned filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj. This invitation highlights his contributions to music in films like 'Crazxy' and 'Gustaakh Ishq'. The membership process emphasizes representation and inclusion, with a significant percentage of invitees coming from diverse backgrounds. Explore how Vishal's journey in music paved the way for this prestigious recognition and learn about the other notable figures invited this year.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 25, 2026, 09:00 IST

Academy Invites New Members Ahead of Oscars

The Oscars season is approaching, and in anticipation, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has sent out invitations to 529 individuals from the film industry to join its ranks. This year's group of invitees includes 21 award winners and three recipients of Scientific and Technical Awards. Those who accept the invitation will gain eligibility for Academy membership. Among the invitees is renowned filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj, who has been recognized in the music category for his work on Crazxy and Gustaakh Ishq.

Vishal Bhardwaj's Invitation to the Academy

Aside from Vishal, no other Bollywood figures are included in this year's list. Other notable invitees comprise Teyana Taylor, Josh O’Connor, Jenna Ortega, Jacob Elordi, and Simu Liu. Additionally, Anthony Ramos, Bill Skarsgård, Mia Goth, Jon Bernthal, Jemaine Clement, Sopé Dìrísù, and Stephen Fry have also received invitations, along with filmmakers Josh and Benny Safdie, Weapons director Zach Cregger, and Sirât filmmaker Oliver Laxe.

Understanding the Academy Membership Process

According to the Academy’s official website, the membership process is based on sponsorship rather than application. Nominees are automatically considered for membership in the year they are nominated, eliminating the need for sponsors. The process involves branch executive committees evaluating candidates, whose recommendations are then reviewed by the Membership Committee before being presented to the Board of Governors for final approval. The Academy emphasizes professional qualifications in its selection process, with a strong commitment to representation, inclusion, and equity. Of the 2026 individuals invited this year, 42% are women, 56% come from underrepresented communities, and 53% hail from 60 countries and territories outside the U.S.

Vishal Bhardwaj's Musical Journey

Before venturing into filmmaking, Vishal Bhardwaj began his career in music under the mentorship of Gulzar, collaborating on the Hindi adaptation of The Jungle Book and creating the beloved title song Jungle Jungle Baat Chali Hai. He made his debut as a music composer with Abhay in 1995, but it was Maachis in 1996 that truly established him as a unique voice in Bollywood music. Following this success, he composed for several films, including Satya (1998), Chachi 420 (1997), Hu Tu Tu (1999), Godmother (1999), and Love Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega (2001), with Godmother winning the National Film Award for Best Music Direction. Even after transitioning to directing, he continued to compose music for his films, such as Omkara, Maqbool, and Haider.