Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound: Know all about India’s official entry to Oscars 2026

India’s cinematic pride has found a new milestone with Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound being officially selected as the country’s entry for the Best International Feature category at the 98th Academy Awards.

Backed by Dharma Productions, the film has already gained international attention for its powerful storytelling and performances.

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A Story Rooted in India, Yet Universal

Director Neeraj Ghaywan, celebrated for Masaan and Geeli Pucchi, once again presents a tale grounded in the lived realities of rural India while carrying themes that resonate globally. Describing the film, he said it is “deeply rooted in the land and its people, carrying the essence of belonging and identity.”

Backed by Dharma Productions

Produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, the project combines Ghaywan’s layered narrative style with the reach of a global studio. Johar called the Oscar selection a “pinch me” moment, thanking the Film Federation of India and expressing hope that Homebound will “connect with millions worldwide and showcase Indian storytelling on the global stage.”

Friendship, Struggles, and Aspirations

Set in a small North Indian village, Homebound follows the lives of two best friends — Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter), a Muslim, and Chandan (Vishal Jethwa), a Dalit. Both dream of escaping poverty and discrimination by becoming police trainees, a path they believe will bring dignity and protection from bias. Their aspirations, however, face delays and disappointments when their applications go unanswered for a year.

Shoaib shoulders his father’s medical expenses, while Chandan dreams of lifting his mother’s life from hardship and harbours feelings for Sudha (Janhvi Kapoor ), a fellow lower-caste student. Their bond, once playful, gradually becomes strained under the weight of unfulfilled dreams. Khatter and Jethwa deliver raw and moving performances, with Kapoor adding depth to the story.

Global Acclaim Before Release

Homebound premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section and went on to secure the second runner-up spot for the International People’s Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). With producers Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra on board, and Martin Scorsese as executive producer, the film has already created strong global buzz.

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Release and Oscar Journey

Slated for release in India on September 26, 2025, Homebound is expected to stir nationwide pride while taking Indian narratives to the world stage. With its blend of realism, emotional depth, and universal themes, the film stands as a strong contender for the 2026 Oscars.