In a rare and poignant nod to Indian cinema, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has paid tribute to the song “Radha Kaise Na Jale” from the acclaimed 2001 film Lagaan, featuring performances by Aamir Khan and Gracy Singh. The recognition, shared across the Academy’s official social media channels, underscores the film’s enduring cultural impact more than two decades after its release.
Lagaan, directed by Ashutosh Gowariker and produced by Aamir Khan, was a cinematic milestone in Indian film history. Set against the backdrop of British colonial rule, it tells the story of a small village that challenges imperial forces through a game of cricket — blending historical narrative with musical grandeur. The film became only the third Indian entry to earn an Academy Award nomination in the Best Foreign Language Film category.
The Academy’s spotlight on “Radha Kaise Na Jale” — a romantic and devotional song composed by A.R. Rahman with lyrics by Javed Akhtar — is a tribute to the musical and visual opulence that defines Lagaan. Performed on-screen by Gracy Singh and Aamir Khan and vocally rendered by Asha Bhosale and Udit Narayan, the song explores themes of divine love and jealousy through a classical Indian lens, elevating the narrative with its lyrical grace and choreographed elegance.
In its tribute, the Academy described the sequence as an “exquisite blend of dance, music, and storytelling that exemplifies the global language of cinema.” The move drew praise from Indian film enthusiasts and cultural commentators, who view it as part of a growing international recognition of Bollywood’s artistic contributions.
While neither Aamir Khan nor the film’s production team have publicly responded to the tribute, those associated with the project expressed quiet pride in the film’s lasting global resonance. For many in India and abroad, Lagaan represents not only a landmark in filmmaking but also a symbol of cinematic diplomacy — bridging cultures through narrative and song.
The Academy’s gesture arrives amid a broader push for diversity and inclusion in global film discourse, reflecting a deeper engagement with non-Western storytelling traditions. In honoring Lagaan, the Oscars spotlight a moment where art, politics, and music coalesce — and where Indian cinema’s voice continues to echo across the world stage.