Karan Johar's Residential Property Selected as India's Entry for the Oscars 2026
In an exciting turn of events, the film "Homebound," directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, has been chosen by the Academy to represent India at the 98th Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category. The film, scheduled for release in Indian theatres on September 26, has already made a significant impact on the international film festival circuit.
The selection was announced by Karan Johar's Dharma Productions, with Johar expressing his gratitude to The Film Federation of India (FFI) for choosing "Homebound" as India's official entry. The film has been a labour of love for Ghaywan, who describes it as a deeply personal story about friendship, dignity, and survival.
"Homebound" revolves around two childhood friends from a small North Indian village who chase a police job that promises them dignity. As they get closer to their dream, mounting desperation threatens their bond. The film is a poignant exploration of the human spirit and the quiet strength carried by those often unseen.
The film has previously clinched the second runner-up spot for the prestigious International People's Choice Award at TIFF 2025, and received a 9-minute-long standing ovation at Cannes 2025. Ghaywan hopes that "Homebound" helps us look closer - with empathy - and see what we've been conditioned to ignore.
Martin Scorsese serves as an executive producer on "Homebound," alongside Pravin Khairnar. The film stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor. Neeraj Ghaywan, the director, expressed his excitement about the film being chosen as India's official entry for the Oscars.
Ghaywan stated that "Homebound" carries the essence of the home we all share, and taking our stories to the world stage is both humbling and a matter of pride. With its powerful narrative and compelling performances, "Homebound" promises to be a significant contender in the upcoming Academy Awards.
