India’s Homebound Enters Oscar 2026 Shortlist for Best International Feature

Indian cinema has achieved a major milestone as Neeraj Ghaywan’s film Homebound has been shortlisted for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards (Oscars 2026). The film has advanced to the next round of voting, placing it among the final 15 shortlisted films selected from entries submitted by 86 countries and regions.

What Is the Achievement?

Homebound has been officially shortlisted by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) in the International Feature Film category. Being shortlisted means the film is now eligible for the final nomination round, where Academy members across branches will vote after viewing all 15 selected films.

Only five films will eventually secure final Oscar nominations.

About the Film Homebound

Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Homebound stars Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa in lead roles, with Janhvi Kapoor playing an important supporting role. The film tells the story of two childhood friends, Shoaib and Chandan, whose shared dream of joining the police force shapes their lives amid social pressures, duty, and friendship.

The narrative focuses on young India, exploring themes of aspiration, responsibility, and emotional resilience.

Background and International Reception

Homebound has already received strong international acclaim. The film premiered in the Un Certain Regard section at Cannes Film Festival 2025, one of the most prestigious platforms for world cinema. It was later screened at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where it won the Second Runner Up award for the International Audience Choice Award.

These festival successes played a key role in building global momentum for the film.

Production and Creative Team

The film is produced by Dharma Productions, with Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, and Apoorva Mehta as producers. It is co-produced by Marijke deSouza and Melita Toscan Du Plantier. Notably, legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese and Pravin Khairnar are credited as Executive Producers, adding further international credibility.

About the Oscars International Feature Film Category

The International Feature Film category recognises feature-length films produced outside the United States with predominantly non English dialogue. Each country can submit one official entry, making the selection process highly competitive.

Advancing to the final 15 is considered a major achievement in itself.

Key Takeaways

• Film: Homebound
• Director: Neeraj Ghaywan
• Category: Best International Feature Film
• Event: 98th Academy Awards (Oscars 2026)
• Shortlist size: 15 films
• Lead actors: Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa

Question

Q. Homebound has been shortlisted for which category at the Oscars 2026?

(A) Best Picture
(B) Best Director
(C) Best International Feature Film
(D) Best Screenplay