Mumbai: This news has brought happiness for Bollywood. Director Neeraj Ghaywan's film 'Homebound' has been included in the shortlist of the Best International Feature Film category of the 98th Academy Awards (Oscars 2026). In this category, out of 86 films from all over the world, only 15 films have been selected, and 'Homebound' is included in this list as India's official entry. Ishaan Khattar, Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor are in important roles in the film. Now everyone's eyes are on whether 'Homebound' will be able to reach the final nominations and write a new chapter for India.
The story of ‘Homebound’ is set in a small village in North India. Ishaan Khattar plays the character of Shoaib, who comes from the Muslim community, while Vishal Jethwa plays the role of Chandan, who is from a Dalit background. Both are childhood friends and dream of changing their lives by joining the police. But this dream is not so easy. Poverty, social discrimination, and circumstances repeatedly stand in their way. The film shows how the system and circumstances test a person's expectations. Janhvi Kapoor's character brings emotional connection to the story and becomes a turning point in the lives of both the friends.
The list of 15 films includes films like Argentina's 'Belen,' Brazil's 'The Secret Agent,' France's 'It Was Just an Accident,' and Germany's 'Sound of Falling.' Also entries from Iraq, Japan, Jordan, Norway, Palestine, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, and Tunisia. Now 5 final nominees will be selected from these. Nominations will be announced on January 22, 2026, with the awards ceremony on March 15.
Producer Karan Johar became emotional. Wrote on Instagram, "I can't express how proud, happy, and over the moon I am on the journey of 'Homebound.' Dharma Movies is proud to have such an important film in its list." He thanked director Neeraj Ghaywan – the journey from Cannes to Oscar shortlist was overwhelming. Janhvi reshared the post, and Ishaan added heart emojis. The happiness of the team is worth seeing.
The film was released on Netflix on November 21, winning praise at festivals. Martin Scorsese is the executive producer. Now the Academy members will vote after watching all 15 films. India has been waiting for an Oscar in International Feature for a long time—will 'Homebound' fulfill that dream? For now, this shortlist itself is a big win. Bollywood fans' fingers are crossed; expectations are sky-high!
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