Indian cinema has earned another moment of global recognition as Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, has been shortlisted for the 98th Academy Awards (Oscars 2026) in the Best International Feature Film category.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the shortlists across 12 categories on Tuesday, with 15 films advancing in the International Feature Film race. These will eventually be narrowed down to five final nominees, set to be announced on January 22, 2026.
Karan Johar Reacts to Oscar Shortlisting
Filmmaker Karan Johar, who backed Homebound under the Dharma Movies banner, expressed heartfelt emotions following the announcement. Sharing the film’s poster on social media, Dharma Movies wrote,
“Homebound has been shortlisted for Best International Feature Film at the 98th Academy Awards. We’re deeply grateful for the extraordinary love and support we’ve received from around the world.”
Johar later took to Instagram to reflect on the film’s journey, writing:
“I am not sure I can articulate how proud, elated and over the moon I am with the journey of Homebound. From Cannes to the Oscar shortlist, this has been overwhelming.”
He credited director Neeraj Ghaywan for bringing the vision to life and thanked the entire cast and crew, calling the film a “special and important” addition to Dharma’s filmography.
About Homebound
Homebound follows the story of childhood friends Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan (Vishal Jethwa), whose shared dream of joining the police force defines their lives and choices. Janhvi Kapoor plays a pivotal role, adding emotional depth to a narrative rooted in friendship, ambition, and the social pressures faced by young Indians.
The film draws inspiration from journalist Basharat Peer’s article, Taking Amrit Home (A Friendship, a Pandemic and a Death Beside the Highway).
Global Recognition and Festival Journey
The film had its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival and was later screened at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), earning critical acclaim along the way. Homebound began streaming on Netflix on November 21, further expanding its global reach.
Produced by Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, Somen Mishra, and co-produced by Marijke deSouza and Melita Toscan Du Plantier, the film also features Martin Scorsese and Pravin Khairnar as Executive Producers.
What’s Next at the Oscars 2026
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Final nominations announced: January 22, 2026
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Oscars ceremony: March 15, 2026
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Host: Conan O’Brien
As Homebound advances closer to a potential Oscar nomination, it marks yet another milestone for contemporary Indian cinema on the global stage.
