‘Homebound’ Chosen As India’s Official Entry For Oscars 2026

India-West News Desk

MUMBAI- Filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan’s film ‘Homebound,’ starring Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa, has been selected as India’s official entry for the 98th Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category. The announcement was made by the Film Federation of India (FFI).

Producer Karan Johar shared his immense gratitude on Instagram, calling the moment “a ‘pinch me’ moment that I will NEVER forget.” He expressed thanks to the FFI for their belief in the film and its potential to represent Indian cinema on the world stage. In a separate statement, Johar said he was “deeply honoured and humbled” by the selection, adding that Ghaywan’s “labour of love is sure to find a home in a million hearts across the world.”

Janhvi Kapoor also celebrated the news on her social media, describing the entire journey of the film as “nothing short of a dream.” She expressed her gratitude for being part of a project that felt bigger than individual achievements, and for the opportunity to work with a team she loves and respects.

Director Neeraj Ghaywan echoed these sentiments, stating he was “deeply honored” that his film was chosen to represent India. He described the film as “rooted in the love for our land and our people,” and said that taking its story to a global audience is “humbling and a matter of pride.” Ghaywan has previously described the film as “a deeply personal story about friendship, dignity, and survival,” adding that he hopes it helps audiences see people who are often unseen with empathy.

The film has already garnered international acclaim, receiving a 9-minute standing ovation at the Cannes 2025 Film Festival and winning the second runner-up spot for the International People’s Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival.

The story of ‘Homebound’ follows two childhood friends from a small North Indian village who aspire to get a police job, believing it will grant them the dignity they have long been denied. Their friendship is tested by desperation and mounting challenges as they pursue their dream. The film is produced by Dharma Productions and has legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese serving as an executive producer. It is scheduled to be released in Indian theatres on September 26. (With IANS  and ANI inputs)