The Indian entry to the Oscars under the Foreign Film Category always makes a lot of news. There are debates that start a month prior to the actual date of officially sending an entry, and there are polls and discussions that are carried out. Some feel lucky that their films manage to reach the Oscars, while others feel upset and try and prove that their films would have proven to be a better choice.

This year, the controversy begins again, and the contenders for the film are all quite strong ones. Considering that films that reflect the true style of film-making of a particular country, or reflect the nuances of its culture are preferred, or at least liked by more number of people, it was obvious that the film dedicated to Dadasaheb Phalke, the Father of Indian Cinema could simply not be forgotten. Harishchandrachi Factory has now been chosen as India’s official entry to the Oscars for the Foreign Film Category.

This film by Paresh Mokashi is a low- budget one, in Marathi. It revolves around how Phalke managed to make India’s first ever motion picture named “Raja Harishchandra”. Of course, Mokashi is very happy, considering it’s his debut film. The Film Federation of India, headed by the well known actress Asha Parekh had to undergo a screening of 44 films before it finally selected this one. What makes Mokashi glad is the fact that the film has not been left limited to being just a Marathi subject, and has in fact been well accepted by people.

Films such as Dev D, Fashion, Dilli 6, Kmainey, New York were all competition to Harishchandrachi Factory. Even the yet to be released Ashutoush Gowarikar film “What’s Your Rashee?” was in the line to be considered. After Shwas (2004), Harishchandra Factory is the second Marathi film to go in for Oscars.