Swara Bhasker: There was a sense of common identity

Poorna Jagannathan (third from left) was among those who attended the do

The 94th Academy Awards is around the corner. Ahead of the March 27 gala, Priyanka Chopra raised a toast to South Asian artistes who have been nominated for the golden statuette. Swara Bhasker attended the pre-Oscar event to cheer for those who have played a key role in bringing to screen stories that transcend cultures and ethnicities. "It's empowering for all South Asians to see their stories being represented in Hollywood. Oscars are the most prestigious [awards], and being a part of something that celebrates the power of cinema is a pleasure," says Bhasker.

Swara Bhasker at the event

Chopra co-hosted the event with Kumail Nanjiani, Mindy Kaling and Anjula Acharia, among others. Riz Ahmed - whose Flee has been nominated for Best Documentary, Best Animated Feature and Best International Feature - was in attendance. At a time when Hollywood is embracing inclusivity, Bhasker notes that the implication of such an evening is far-reaching. "It was lovely to see artistes, who are competing with each other for the same award, root for one another. My biggest take-away from the evening was that sense of common identity. Another highlight was how stories are becoming more diverse, and there is awareness about inclusivity. It is not just in front of the camera, but also behind it, to avoid racial stereotyping. Writers' rooms are diverse now, and that reflected in the room yesterday."

One wonders if Hollywood features in the actor's scheme of things. She says, "I seek strong stories. I would be open to doing that anywhere in the world. Everyone wants to work in Hollywood. So why not?"