Vidushi Gaur

India’s critically acclaimed drama Homebound has taken a significant step forward in its Oscar journey, earning a place on the shortlist for the Best International Feature Film category ahead of the 98th Academy Awards.

The film, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions alongside a range of international collaborators, is now among the 15 films worldwide eligible for nomination following the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ (AMPAS) latest shortlist announcement.

Homebound stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, and tells a poignant story of friendship, ambition, and societal pressures through the lives of two childhood friends chasing their dream of joining the police force.

Wow… What a moment!
HOMEBOUND shortlisted for Best International Feature Film at the Oscars 🏆
It’ll compete against 14 international films.

Huge congratulations to the entire team — you deserve a loud applause & respect. 👏🙏🏽🇮🇳.#Oscars #oscars2026 #iplauction2026 pic.twitter.com/HEpNRdBL8R

— Manakdeep Singh Kharaud (@Iam_MKharaud) December 17, 2025

The announcement marks a major achievement for the film, which was India’s official entry into the Best International Feature Film competition earlier this year. It was chosen from a competitive pool of submissions from 86 countries and regions.

Industry reactions have been enthusiastic. Producer Karan Johar said he was “over the moon” about the development and expressed gratitude to the cast and crew for their work on the project.

While Homebound has garnered early acclaim on the awards circuit, including a celebrated premiere in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival 2025 and a notable showing at the Toronto International Film Festival, it now faces stiff competition as it seeks a final Oscar nomination ahead of the ceremony.

A historic moment! 🇮🇳✨ Neeraj Ghaywan’s #Homebound makes it to the #Oscars shortlist for Best International Feature Film 🎬🏆
Pride, talent, and storytelling at its finest! 🙌❤️#Oscars2026 pic.twitter.com/Zk6Dnpv9Sq

— Our Indian Cinema (@OurIndianCinema) December 17, 2025

Being shortlisted means Homebound will now be considered by Academy members in all branches, who must view all 15 shortlisted films before voting on the final nominations, expected to be announced January 22, 2026. The 98th Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled for March 15, 2026, in Los Angeles.

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If Homebound secures a nomination in the Best International Feature Film category, it would place the film alongside a select list of Indian cinema classics that have achieved similar recognition, a rare and proud moment for the industry.