Bangladesh Chooses 'A House Named Shahana' for Oscar's Best International Film Category

Bangladesh Selects 'A House Named Shahana' as Oscar Entry DHAKA, BANGLADESH - SEPTEMBER 27, 2025 - The Bangladesh National Film Development Corporation (BNFDC) has chosen Leesa Gazi's debut feature "Barir Naam Shahana" (A House Named Shahana) as the country's submission for the best international feature film category at the 98th Academy Awards. The drama, based on Gazi's 2011 novella, tells the story of Dipa, a young woman forced into a marriage with a widower in England. After enduring abuse, she returns home to rural Bangladesh and confronts the entrenched patriarchal attitudes of her community while pursuing her dream of becoming a doctor. "We are thrilled that 'A House Named Shahana' has been selected as our Oscar entry," said BNFDC Chairman Shyamol Majumder. "This film is not only a powerful portrayal of women's struggles in rural Bangladesh but also a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage." The selection was made after a rigorous evaluation process, which included submissions from several other films. The final decision was based on the film's artistic and technical merit, as well as its representation of Bangladeshi culture. "A House Named Shahana" has already gained international recognition, having premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2023. The film has also been screened at various festivals around the world, including the Berlinale and the Dubai International Film Festival. The selection of "A House Named Shahana" as Bangladesh's Oscar entry is seen as a significant milestone for the country's film industry. It marks the first time that a Bangladeshi film has been submitted for consideration in the best international feature film category. "This is a historic moment for Bangladeshi cinema," said Gazi, who wrote and directed the film. "I am proud to represent my country on the global stage, and I hope that 'A House Named Shahana' will inspire audiences around the world." The 98th Academy Awards are scheduled to take place in February 2026. The nominees for the best international feature film category will be announced in January 2026. In related news, China has selected "Dead to Rights" as its submission for the best international feature film category, while Nepal's Oscar committee is facing controversy over its selection of "Anjila" as the country's entry. The global film community is eagerly awaiting the announcement of the nominees and the eventual winner of the best international feature film award. With "A House Named Shahana" representing Bangladesh on the global stage, the country's film industry is poised to take center stage at the Oscars. *Reporting by Variety.*