FFI President reveals Randeep Hooda's 'Veer Savarkar' can be an independent submission, not official Oscar entry

'Laapataa Ladies' was named India’s official entry for the 97th Academy Awards just a day ago. Following this, the makers of 'Swatantrya Veer Savarkar' announced that their film had also been submitted for the Oscars. They expressed gratitude to the Film Federation of India (FFI) for the support.
This sparked confusion among fans and some in the film industry.According to Academy rules, only one film per country can be submitted as an official entry in the Best International Feature Film category. Talking to India Today Digital, FFI President Ravi Kottarakara clarified the situation and discussed the chances of the Randeep Hooda film making it to the Oscars.
Kottarakara said he learned from the media about 'Swatantrya Veer Savarkar' being submitted for the Oscars. He didn't know the details from the producers but emphasised that they have officially announced 'Laapataa Ladies' as the country's entry.
For those unaware, the producers of "Swatantrya Veer Savarkar" posted on Instagram, saying, "Honored and humbled! Our film Swatantrya Veer Savarkar has officially been submitted for the Oscars. Thank You FILM FEDERATION OF INDIA for this remarkable appreciation. This journey has been incredible, and we are immensely grateful to everyone who has supported us along the way."
Clarifying film submissions, the president stated that the official entry is made through the FFI. Filmmakers submit their films for screening, and one is selected. He emphasised that "submit" is key, as multiple films can be sent in. 'Veer Savarkar' was also submitted and reviewed by the jury, but while it was a good film, the unanimous choice was 'Laapataa Ladies'. He noted that filmmakers can also submit films directly to the Academy, but that is an independent submission and not affiliated with the federation, which has already announced its official choice.
Alongside 'Veer Savarkar' films like 'Chandu Champion', 'Kalki', 'Animal', 'Article 370' and 'HanuMan' were submitted to the Film Federation of India for Oscar selection consideration.