Neeraj Ghaywan’s directorial ‘Homebound’ has become India’s official entry to the Oscars 2026 in the Best International Feature Film category. The movie achieved this milestone even before its theatrical release in India. It stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor in the lead roles.
Sharing the news, Karan Johar wrote, “One of the “pinch me” moments that I will NEVER forget!!!! Extremely honoured, humbled and ecstatic that our film #Homebound is selected as India’s official entry for Best International Feature at the 98th Academy Awards! Our deepest gratitude to the @filmfederationofindia to believe in the story, in us and what we can bring to the world stage for Indian cinema. Heartiest congratulations to the entire team.”
Meanwhile, Karan Johar said in a statement, “We are deeply honoured and humbled that HOMEBOUND has been selected as India’s official entry to the Academy Awards… Neeraj Ghaywan’s labour of love is sure to a find a home in a million hearts across the world”
Neeraj Ghaywan added, “I’m deeply honoured that Homebound has been chosen as India’s official entry to the Oscars. Rooted in the love for our land and our people, it carries the essence of the home we all share. To take our stories to the world and represent India at one of the biggest global stages for cinema is both humbling and a matter of pride, and for this I’m extremely grateful.”
‘Homebound’ will release in India on September 26, 2025. It premiered at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. The movie was also screened at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival and Melbourne International Film Festival. Even before its release in India, ‘Homebound’ received an amazing response from the critics.
