SS Rajamouli responds to the Academy's invitation

Earlier, we reported that SS Rajamouli, the maker of the two Bahubali films, Eega, and RRR, became one of the around 500 people whom the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences invited to be part of it. The director has now responded to the invitation through an X post. "Invited as voters at the Academy. Peddanna, Tarak, Charan, Sabu Sir, Senthil, and Chandrabose Garu. Now Prem, Rama, and me. One film gave recognition to nine of its cast and crew. Thank you, RRR," Rajamouli wrote. In a related post, he described the invitation as an "honour."

In a statement shared on its website, the Academy said late Tuesday night that the invitee list includes artists and executives who have distinguished themselves by their contributions to theatrical motion pictures.

Membership selection is based on professional qualifications, with an ongoing commitment to representation, inclusion, and equity, according to the Los Angeles-based institution that organises the Oscars.

Shabana Azmi, producer Ritesh Sidhwani, and cinematographer Ravi Varman are also among the invitees to join the membership ranks at The Academy.

Rajamouli last worked as a co-creator, alongside Sharad Devarajan, on the Bahubali films' prequel series Baahubali: Crown of Blood.