'The Lunchbox' must be India's frontrunner for Oscar: KJo

Filmmaker Karan Johar, who is presenting acclaimed film "The Lunchbox" under his banner Dharma Productions, believes that the movie must be considered as a potential frontrunner for India's entry for the Oscars.

At a press conference here Friday, the filmmaker was asked if he sees "The Lunchbox" making its way to the coveted Academy Awards platform.

He said: "As far as Oscars is concerned, it is not up to us. It's (the decision is) upon the FFI (Film Federation of India). We can only communicate. They (FFI) have a certain positioning when they choose they look into potential world cinema films.

"We can only say that yes, this should be a frontrunner, and India should look at it in its selection very carefully."

Releasing in India Sep 20, the film will have its worldwide release either in 2014 or by the end of this year.

Karan said he will try to make the film reach an audience as wide as possible.

"'The Lunchbox' will get the maximum possible platform theatrically," he said.

The film, which features Irrfan, Nimrat Kaur and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, is directed by debutant Ritesh Batra. Karan admits he can never make a film of this standard himself.

"There are films which are most superior in content, absolutely brilliant in its storytelling. When I saw 'The Lunchbox' I wished that my name was associated with it, and that has happened," Karan said.

"I feel proud seeing such a film as an audience member and a filmmaker because I know that I am not capable of making such a film. So if my name gets associated in this way, then I am happier and I think it's a good way forward for the company," he added.

"The Lunchbox" has been co-produced by multiple people, including actor Irrfan, who plays the lead role in the film.