South Asian pride shines at pre-Oscar bash in Los Angeles

South Asians Oscars Pre Event

South Asian pride was on full display at the annual South Asians at the Oscars pre-Oscar bash, which took place in downtown Los Angeles on Wednesday evening.

Co-hosted by Mindy Kaling, “Evil” actor Aasif Mandvi, Bela Bajaria, Liza Koshy, Nik Dodani, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, Pawo Choyning Dorji, Shamina Singh, Shruti Ganguly, and Anita Chatterjee, the event celebrated the achievements of South Asian Oscar nominees for 2025. Held at the Carondelet House, the gathering highlighted the growing influence and recognition of South Asian talent in the entertainment industry.

“This is one of my favorite events every year,” Kaling expressed to the crowd. “I can’t believe just a few years ago this didn’t exist. I’m grateful for my co-hosts who put this together and look really hot! To be effective and hot is everybody’s dream.”

The event also highlighted the importance of showcasing diverse voices, with Suchitra Mattai, the producer of the Oscar-nominated live-action short Anuja, sharing how the film came about to provide a platform for young South Asian women. “It just felt important to tell this particular type of story and to make a platform for young female, Indian, South Asian actresses,” Mattai said during her speech.

The film Anuja tells the story of a 9-year-old garment factory worker and her 17-year-old sister, shedding light on the global issue of child labour. Director Adam J. Graves, who is also Mattai’s husband, stated that child labour is a global issue, not just a South Asian one.

Mindy Kaling, who was also part of the producing team, highlighted the film’s portrayal of young women in difficult circumstances while still capturing moments of joy. She emphasized the need for changing the narrative around South Asian people, stating, “So much of the time, Indian people, South Asian people, we are portrayed in a certain light. I have spent so much of the last part of my career trying to change that.”

The event underscored the growing opportunities for South Asian actors and filmmakers, marking an important shift in the industry.