- Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound to Represent India at Oscars 2026: A Story of Friendship, Resilience, and Social Awakening
India’s cinematic hopes for the 2026 Academy Awards now rest on Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound, a film that has not only captivated audiences worldwide but also brought to light the enduring scars of caste, religion, and inequality in contemporary India. The Film Federation of India announced the selection on Friday, igniting celebration among cinephiles, critics, and industry insiders who have hailed the decision as both timely and richly deserved.
A Film with Global Resonance
Homebound is not just India’s Oscar entry—it is already an international phenomenon. The film’s journey began at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, where it premiered in the Un Certain Regard section and received a nine-minute standing ovation, a rare honour in one of cinema’s most discerning arenas. It then went on to the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where it secured the position of second runner-up for the International People’s Choice Award and earned yet another emotional ovation. These accolades have set the stage for its Oscar campaign, with critics praising its universal themes of friendship, struggle, and endurance.
A Story Born from Injustice
Inspired by The New York Times article Taking Amrit Home, Homebound is steeped in social consciousness. It follows two best friends, Chandan Kumar (Vishal Jethwa) and Mohammed Shoaib Ali (Ishaan Khatter), whose shared dream of joining the state police force is continually undermined by the weight of caste and communal prejudice. Their paths intertwine with a character played by Janhvi Kapoor, who herself embodies resistance against entrenched societal barriers.
The narrative crescendos into the deeply moving portrayal of the migrant exodus during India’s nationwide lockdown—an episode etched into collective memory. This layering of personal friendship, systemic injustice, and national tragedy transforms Homebound into a story at once heartbreaking and uplifting. It is a reminder that even in despair, resilience and solidarity can prevail.
A Creative Powerhouse Behind the Film
The film boasts a team that bridges Indian and global cinema. Produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions and co-backed by Martin Scorsese as executive producer, Homebound is both deeply rooted in Indian realities and globally attuned in its storytelling. The ensemble cast—Khatter, Kapoor, and Jethwa—has been widely praised for performances that balance raw vulnerability with strength.
Pride, Humility, and the Road to the Oscars
For the creators, the Oscar selection is as much about pride as it is about responsibility. Karan Johar called the project a “labour of love” destined to touch millions, while director Neeraj Ghaywan reflected on its deeper meaning: “Rooted in the love for our land and our people, it carries the essence of the home we all share. To take our stories to the world and represent India at one of the biggest global stages for cinema is both humbling and a matter of pride.”
Why Homebound Matters
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- India’s Official Entry: Chosen as the country’s official submission to the 2026 Academy Awards.
- Proven Success Abroad: Nine-minute ovation at Cannes and recognition at TIFF.
- Socially Relevant Storytelling: Tackles caste oppression, communal divides, and the migrant crisis.
- Stellar Creative Team: Produced by Dharma Productions, executive produced by Martin Scorsese, with standout performances by Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa.
A Nation’s Hopes
As India’s official entry, Homebound carries the weight of a nation’s cinematic pride. Its powerful story, critical acclaim, and global recognition already make it a formidable contender. More than just a film, it is a mirror reflecting the struggles and resilience of ordinary people, wrapped in artistry that has the power to transcend borders.
With its selection, Homebound now begins its most important journey toward the Academy Awards stage, where it hopes to etch India’s story into the annals of world cinema.