Filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan’s movie ‘Homebound’ has been chosen as India’s official submission for the Oscars 2026.
On Friday evening, producer Karan Johar took to Instagram to express his gratitude to The Film Federation of India (FFI) for selecting ‘Homebound’ to represent India at the 98th Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category. He described it as one of the “pinch me” moments that he will NEVER forget!!!! He expressed his extreme honor, humility, and excitement that their film #Homebound has been chosen as India’s official entry for Best International Feature at the 98th Academy Awards! He extended his deepest thanks to the @filmfederationofindia for believing in the story, in them, and in what they can present to the world stage for Indian cinema. He congratulated the entire team heartily,” Karan’s post stated. Director Neeraj Ghaywan also conveyed his enthusiasm. In a statement, he remarked, “I’m deeply honored that Homebound has been selected as India’s official entry to the Oscars.
Rooted in our love for our land and our people, it embodies the essence of the home we all share. To share our stories with the world and represent India on one of the largest global platforms for cinema is both humbling and a source of pride, and for this, I am extremely grateful.” Featuring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor in the leading roles, ‘Homebound’ was recently showcased at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where it secured the second runner-up position for the esteemed International People’s Choice Award. In May, the film received a 9-minute-long standing ovation at Cannes 2025. Ghaywan’s ‘Homebound’ tells the story of two childhood friends from a small village in North India who pursue a police job that promises them the dignity they have long been denied. However, as they draw closer to their dream, escalating desperation threatens the bond that unites them.
Director Neeraj Ghaywan characterized ‘Homebound’ as “a profoundly personal narrative concerning friendship, dignity, and survival.” He stated, “It’s about individuals who frequently go unnoticed, and the subtle strength they possess in a world that seldom takes a moment for them.” The director expressed his aspiration that the film “encourages us to observe more closely—with empathy—and recognize what we have been conditioned to overlook.” Esteemed filmmaker Martin Scorsese is an executive producer for the film. The film is scheduled to premiere in Indian theaters on September 26.
