New Delhi : The Indian crew of Oscar-nominated film `Kavi' have finally got sponsored tickets to attend the Academy Awards in Los Angeles but before they head to the US, they still have one wish - they want President Pratibha Patil and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi to see their movie.

"So far we have got huge support from the government but we wish that the president and Rahul Gandhi also see the film. We realise they are busy, but we feel even we are important at this point," Guneet Monga, co-producer of the film, told the media.

The 19-minute `Kavi' has been made by American director Gregg Helvey. The film, which is in Hindi, tells the story of a young boy who wants to play cricket and go to school, but is forced to work in a brick kiln. It has been nominated in the Short Film (Live Action) category at the upcoming 82nd annual Academy Awards that will be held on March 7.

"I did write to the president's office and got a response but we didn't get to meet her. I hope we can seek her blessings before heading for the Oscar," said Monga. Monga, along with co-producer Harish Amin, first assistant director Vikas Chandra and 16-year-old lead actor Sagar Salunke are expected to take off from India on March 3. Director Helvey will meet them in Los Angeles.

For a film that isn't backed by any major international production house, arranging the funds to be able to walk the red carpet hasn't been a cakewalk. Until Saturday morning, the team had no sponsorship for the air fare, but Air India came to their rescue and provided them with Mumbai-New York return tickets.