21 Aug 2025 : While the global spotlight recently shone on his son’s Oscar-winning success, it is worth remembering that the family’s legacy at the Academy Awards began decades earlier. In 1987, this veteran South Indian star achieved a milestone by becoming the first actor from the South Indian film industry to be officially invited to the Oscars—a feat that set a cultural precedent for Indian cinema on the world stage.
Back in the mid-1980s, Indian cinema was gaining limited international exposure. Bollywood occasionally attracted global attention, but South Indian cinema—despite its richness and artistic depth—remained largely underrepresented. Against this backdrop, his invitation to Hollywood’s most prestigious event marked a significant breakthrough. It was not only recognition of his stardom but also a sign of the growing influence of Indian cinema beyond its borders.
His presence at the Oscars in 1987 was symbolic in multiple ways. It represented the artistic credibility of South Indian performers and storytellers while also hinting at the possibilities of cross-cultural collaborations. At a time when very few Indian actors had global visibility, he stood as a pioneer, carrying the legacy of his regional industry to the international stage.
Fast forward decades later, his son’s film would bring home the golden statuette, creating a historic moment for Indian cinema. While the younger generation basks in this global recognition, the father’s contribution reminds fans that their Oscar journey began long before, with his quiet but groundbreaking appearance in Los Angeles.
Film historians often point out that moments like his 1987 invitation paved the way for greater appreciation of Indian cinema worldwide. Today, South Indian films—from Telugu blockbusters to Tamil classics—enjoy international screenings, OTT releases, and even Oscar campaigns. The seeds of this progress, however, were sown by trailblazers like him.
Tributes and social media posts following his son’s Oscar victory have reignited memories of his own achievement. Fans recall that while his son won the award through his work in music and film, it was the father who first carried the family name to Hollywood’s grandest stage nearly four decades ago.
The story of this family encapsulates both continuity and evolution in Indian cinema. From being the first South Indian star to be invited to the Oscars in 1987 to producing an Oscar-winning film years later, their journey is a testament to talent, perseverance, and cultural impact.
Summary
Decades before his son’s Oscar triumph, this South Indian legend became the first from the region to be invited to the Academy Awards in 1987, pioneering global recognition for Indian cinema.