A R Rahman became the first Indian to get three Oscar nominations for his score in Slumdog Millionaire, which was also was nominated for 7 other categories.
After four Golden Globes, Slumdog struck gold on Thursday, scooping up 10 Oscar nominations. In a historic first for any Indian, AR Rahman bagged three nominations.
As soon as news streamed in from Beverly Hills, California, it was a time for unabashed joy in Mumbai. The Slumdog Millionaire team, here for a press conference before the film’s premiere at a city theatre on Thursday evening, just couldn’t stop hugging each other.
“It’s unbelievable and incredible. Especially three nominations for Rahman is something you can’t beat,” said director Danny Boyle.
My thanks to Mumbai, says Danny Boyle
Slumdog Millionaire has bagged 10 Oscar nominations, including best director and best picture. Danny Boyle says it was possible because Mumbai had opened its arms to him.
“I am extremely thankful to the city which opened its arms to us and gave us so much warmth. Nobody should miss out on the debt of gratitude that we owe to the city. This is an extraordinary city and I am glad I could capture some of it on camera,” director Danny Boyle told reporters, adding it was rare for any musician to bag three Oscar nominations.
Rahman is in the Oscar race for Best Original Song for Jai Ho and O Saya as well as for best overall score. He could not make it to the conference as he was in Chennai for Dilli 6.
Resool Pukootty, another Indian, who is nominated for Sound Mixing said it was “unbelievable.” “I feel honoured to be nominated for the Oscars. This one is for the country. It’s a great day for me and all of us,” said Pukooty.
“I cannot believe this. This has taken India to another level altogether. I cannot tell you how proud the cast and crew is, especially about Rahman’s nominations,” said Anil Kapoor who stars in the film.
Irrfan Khan, who has also acted in the movie, said the nominations brought hope for India. “It’s a sign of changing times,” he said.
“It is in an incredulous feeling. We can’t stop hugging each other,” said co-director Loveleen Tandon.
The Oscars, the film industry’s most coveted awards, will be presented on February 22.
India’s entry in the foreign film category Aamir Khan’s Taare Zameen Par failed to make the cut.
Slumdog Millionaire opens across India on Friday.
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