The Indian film industry is riding a wave of pride and jubilation as the Bollywood movie 'Homebound' has been officially shortlisted for the 98th Academy Awards, popularly known as the Oscars, in 2026. The film, featuring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor in pivotal roles, has made the cut in the prestigious Best International Feature Film category.
Bollywood Stars Pour In Congratulations
Celebrations erupted across social media platforms as the news broke. Leading the chorus of praise was actress Kiara Advani, who shared her heartfelt excitement on Instagram. She posted the film's poster on her stories with a congratulatory message that read, "Congratulations Team Homebound!!!" Her post added to the flood of supportive messages from industry peers and fans alike.
The production house behind the film, Dharma Movies, also made an official announcement. Their Instagram post stated, "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." This recognition marks a significant milestone for the team and for Indian cinema on the global stage.
A Global Cinematic Showcase
The Oscars 2026 shortlist for Best International Feature Film presents a remarkably diverse selection of cinema from across the planet. India's 'Homebound' finds itself in esteemed company alongside films from numerous nations. The complete shortlist includes:
- 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
- Tunisia’s The Voice of Hind Rajab
- India’s Homebound
The Heart of 'Homebound': Friendship and Aspiration
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, 'Homebound' is a poignant narrative set in a small village in northern India. The plot centers on two childhood friends whose shared dream is to become police officers. For them, clearing the national exam is not merely about securing employment; it represents a path to earning respect and building a stable future. However, as they navigate the arduous journey towards their ambition, the harsh realities of struggle and disappointment begin to test the limits of their once-unbreakable friendship.
In an interview, director Neeraj Ghaywan revealed the real-life inspiration behind the film. He explained that the story originated from an op-ed essay published in The New York Times, which detailed a true incident from India. Ghaywan stated, "It was a story of friendship and what happened to these friends during the journey [during] the pandemic… I wanted to use that as a base friendship, as a strong way to talk about our bigger concerns that the world is now grappling with."
He further elaborated on the film's deeper theme, questioning the forces that drive migration. "What makes migrants leave their homes in rural India or across the world? What are the things that motivate them? It’s not just jobs, it’s not just money, it’s also existential," Ghaywan added. This layered storytelling, combining personal bonds with larger socio-economic themes, has evidently resonated with the Oscar selection committee, placing Indian cinema once again in the international spotlight.
