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Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound, starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor, is India’s official Oscar 2026 entry. Here’s what makes it special.
Homebound is headlined by Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa.
India’s hopes for global cinematic recognition are soaring as Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound has been announced as the country’s official entry to the Best International Feature category at the 98th Academy Awards. The film, produced by Dharma Productions, is already generating immense buzz, thanks to its rooted storytelling and powerful performances.
Neeraj Ghaywan Brings Another Story Rooted In India
Director Neeraj Ghaywan, who earlier won acclaim for Masaan and Geeli Pucchi, once again blends realism with universal emotions in Homebound. Speaking about the film, Ghaywan highlighted that it is “deeply rooted in the land and its people, carrying the essence of belonging and identity.” This delicate balance of local texture with global resonance is what makes the film stand out as a worthy Oscar contender.
Backed by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, the film benefits from both strong storytelling and the backing of a studio with international reach. Johar described the Oscar selection as a “pinch me” moment and expressed gratitude to the Film Federation of India, adding that the film will “connect with millions worldwide and showcase Indian narratives on a global stage.”
A Powerful Story Of Friendship, Struggle And Dreams
The film’s narrative unfolds in a small North Indian village, where two lifelong best friends — Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter), a Muslim, and Chandan (Vishal Jethwa), a Dalit — dream of escaping poverty and discrimination by securing government jobs. They believe becoming police trainees will grant them dignity and shield them from bias.
But their journey takes an uncertain turn when an entire year passes without any response to their applications. While Shoaib juggles the financial burden of his father’s knee surgery, Chandan hopes to give his mother a better life and secretly nurtures feelings for Sudha (Janhvi Kapoor), a fellow lower-caste student from his college.
The film traces their evolving friendship — playful in the beginning but strained by frustration and dashed hopes. Khatter and Jethwa’s raw, endearing performances are at the film’s core, while Kapoor, though in a smaller role, lends poignancy to the narrative.
Homebound Release Date And Global Appeal
Homebound isn’t just a social drama; it’s a reflection of generational struggles across rural India, wrapped in themes of identity, aspiration, and belonging. These elements give it universal appeal, ensuring resonance with global audiences beyond its Indian setting.
The film is slated for theatrical release on September 26, 2025, giving Indian audiences a chance to experience it before the Oscars buzz peaks. As anticipation builds, Homebound stands as a reminder of Indian cinema’s ability to tell intimate yet universally powerful stories.
Shrishti Negi is a journalist with over eight years of experience in the media industry. She leads the Entertainment desk at News18.com. She writes breaking news stories, generates feature ideas, edits copies, …Read More
Shrishti Negi is a journalist with over eight years of experience in the media industry. She leads the Entertainment desk at News18.com. She writes breaking news stories, generates feature ideas, edits copies, … Read More
September 19, 2025, 21:24 IST
