Neeraj Ghaywan’s internationally acclaimed feature ‘Homebound’ has been shortlisted for Oscars 2026 in the Best International Feature Film category. Produced under Dharma Productions, the film stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor in lead roles. Karan Johar expressed pride and congratulated the entire team for achieving this global milestone.
- Shortlisted for the 98th Academy Awards
- Dharma Productions-backed project
- Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan
- Lead actors: Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, Janhvi Kapoor
‘Homebound’ enters the Oscar race
The movie officially secured a place on the 2026 Oscar shortlist released by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. It now competes with 14 other films in the Best International Feature Film category, selected from 86 global submissions.
Significance of the international shortlist
This shortlist represents powerful storytelling from around the world. ‘Homebound’ will compete against titles from Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany, Iraq, Japan, Jordan, South Korea, Norway, Spain, Switzerland, and other international entries.
Karan Johar reacts with pride
Karan Johar shared an emotional note celebrating the recognition. He stated that the journey of ‘Homebound’ reflects how ambition and persistence can turn dreams into reality. Johar praised director Neeraj Ghaywan for steering a film that captures universal emotions and thanked the cast and crew for delivering a memorable cinematic experience.
What is the story of ‘Homebound’?
The film revolves around two childhood friends, played by Vishal Jethwa and Ishaan Khatter, who have grown up facing social inequality and economic hardship.
- Vishal Jethwa plays Chandan Kumar, a Dalit boy
- Ishaan Khatter plays Mohammad Shoaib, a Muslim boy
- Both characters grow up under discrimination and poverty
- They dream of joining the police service to build a better future
- As they near their goal, cracks begin to appear in their friendship
The narrative explores caste and religious identity, ambition, emotional trauma, and the gradual breakdown of relationships under pressure. The film has been appreciated for its realism and social relevance.
The road ahead
With the shortlist announcement complete, the film now moves toward the nomination stage, which will determine the final contenders for the Oscars. The team hopes its journey from Cannes acclaim to the global awards stage will continue successfully.
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Topics:
Oscar Awards, Janhvi Kapoor, Vishal Jethwa, Ishaan Khatter, Neeraj Ghaywan, Dharma Productions