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By: The Trek News Desk
‘Homebound’ has been selected as India’s official entry for the 2026 Oscars in the “Best International Feature” category. The film stars actors Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor in leading roles.
On Friday, September 19, a press conference was held in Kolkata regarding the selection of the film. During the event, filmmaker N. Chandra revealed that a total of 24 films, made in different languages, were in contention to represent India at the Oscars. Chandra stated, “It was a difficult decision because these films touched the hearts of the audience. We were not judges, but coaches, looking for players who made their mark.”
Chandra, along with the selection committee, which consisted of producers, directors, writers, editors, and journalists, made the final decision.
Film’s Plot
‘Homebound’ tells the story of two childhood friends from a small village in North India who dream of becoming police officers in hopes of earning the respect they never had. However, as they get closer to their goal, pressure and struggles arise, testing their friendship.
Success at Toronto Film Festival
Earlier, the film had a remarkable showing at the 50th edition of the Toronto Film Festival, where it won the second runner-up spot in the TIFF People’s Choice International Award. It was beaten by the Korean film ‘No Other Choice’ and ‘Sentimental Value’, which took first runner-up and the winner’s position, respectively.
Director Neeraj Ghaywan’s Statement
After the film’s screening at the festival, director Neeraj Ghaywan described ‘Homebound’ as an intensely personal story about friendship, dignity, and survival. He said, “It’s about people who are often unseen, and the quiet strength they carry in a world that rarely pauses for them.”
Martin Scorsese’s Praise
According to an official note shared by the film’s team, legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese praised ‘Homebound’. He said, “I saw Neeraj’s first film Masaan in 2015, and I loved it. When I received the story of Homebound, I was deeply impressed. It’s an important contribution to Indian cinema.”
Karan Johar’s Reaction
Producer Karan Johar expressed his joy on Instagram following the film’s success. He wrote, “It’s very special when it’s the people’s choice… Homebound is a film we all take great pride in, and to see it being loved, accepted, and appreciated worldwide is surreal.”
Indian Theatrical Release
Neeraj Ghaywan’s film is scheduled for a theatrical release in India on September 26, 2025.
Oscar 2026 Preparations
The film has been selected as India’s official entry for the 2026 Oscars, with the final submission deadline for the “Best International Feature Film” category set for October 1, 2025. The Oscars shortlist will be announced on December 16, 2025, and the official nominations will be revealed on January 22, 2026.
The 98th Academy Awards will take place on March 15, 2026.
Source: News Agencies
