Neeraj Ghaywan’s poignant drama Homebound has earned a coveted spot on the shortlist for Best International Feature Film at the 98th Academy Awards (Oscars 2026), announced on December 16, 2025. India’s official entry, selected from 86 eligible films worldwide, now advances among 15 contenders for the final nominations. Directed by Ghaywan (Masaan) and produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, the film stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, exploring friendship, caste, religion, and migration against India’s socio-political backdrop.
The Story: Rooted in Real Struggles
Inspired by journalist Basharat Peer’s 2020 New York Times op-ed “Taking Amrit Home,” Homebound follows childhood friends Shoaib (Khatter) and Chandan (Jethwa) from a northern Indian village, chasing police jobs for dignity and escape. Their bond strains amid disillusionment, societal pressures, and the pandemic’s harsh realities. Janhvi Kapoor adds emotional layers, while Martin Scorsese serves as executive producer, praising Ghaywan’s vision. The film premiered in Un Certain Regard at Cannes 2025, earning acclaim for its empathy and restraint, followed by TIFF recognition as Second Runner-Up for International Audience Choice.
The Shortlist: Global Contenders
Homebound joins strong entries like Argentina’s Belén, Brazil’s The Secret Agent, France’s It Was Just an Accident, Germany’s Sound of Falling, Iraq’s The President’s Cake, Japan’s Kokuho, Jordan’s All That’s Left of You, Norway’s Sentimental Value, Palestine’s Palestine 36, South Korea’s No Other Choice, Spain’s Sirât, Switzerland’s Late Shift, Taiwan’s Left-Handed Girl, and Tunisia’s The Voice of Hind Rajab. Academy members must view all 15 to vote, with nominations on January 22, 2026.
Reactions: Pride and Hope
Karan Johar tweeted, “Over the moon with Homebound’s journey—from Cannes to the Oscar shortlist!” Ghaywan called it “a dream,” thanking the team. Fans celebrated: “India’s voice on global stage—Homebound deserves it!”
A Step Toward Glory
Homebound’s shortlist isn’t endpoint—it’s momentum. As India’s resilient tale vies worldwide, it thunders: Can empathy earn eternity? Ghaywan’s grounded gem affirms yes, scripting hope for Oscars glory in cinema’s ceaseless quest.
-By Manoj H