Oscar 2026 Shortlist Homebound
Ishaan Khatter starrer ‘Homebound’ has been shortlisted for the Oscars 2026. Karan Johar called it a proud moment for Dharma Productions.
India Strong Presence in the Oscar Race
The year 2025 is shaping up to be a historic year for Indian cinema. Bollywood veteran filmmaker Karan Johar film Homebound has made it to the shortlist of the world most prestigious film platform, the 98th Academy Awards (Oscar 2026). This film is among the 15 best films of the world selected in the International Feature Film category. On December 16, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences officially released the shortlist, in which the inclusion of ‘Homebound’ from India became a matter of pride for the Indian film industry.
Homebound Resonates Globally
Being included in the Oscar shortlist is considered a major achievement for any film. The inclusion of Homebound in this list proves that Indian stories are no longer limited to the country but are also impacting the global audience. The film had already become a topic of discussion at international film festivals and now by entering the Oscar race, it has presented its strong claim.
Karan Johar Emotional Reaction
As soon as the Oscars 2026 shortlist was revealed, Karan Johar expressed his happiness on social media. He shared an emotional post on Instagram, writing— “I can’t express how I feel. This journey of Homebound has been a dream come true for me and my entire team. It’s a proud moment for Dharma Productions that our film is among the top 15 films globally.” Karan Johar praised the film director Neeraj Ghaywan and said that his vision and storytelling style gave this film international recognition.
Neeraj Ghaywan directorial strength
Homebound is directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, who previously directed the critically acclaimed film Masaan. In this film too, he has presented social issues in a very sensitive and impactful manner.
Neeraj Ghaywan cinema has always been a voice for the marginalized, and Homebound continues that tradition.
Martin Scorsese significant support
One of the film biggest highlights is that legendary Hollywood director Martin Scorsese is on board as an executive producer. His presence bolstered the film global standing and increased its acceptance on international platforms.
The involvement of a name like Scorsese demonstrates the potential for ‘Homebound’ to have a global impact on the story.
Powerful Star Cast
The film stars Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa in lead roles. The performances of all three actors have received significant praise at film festivals. Ishaan Khatter delivers one of the most powerful roles of his career.
What is the story of the film?
The story of Homebound revolves around two friends—Mohammed Shoaib and Chandan Kumar. Both young men observe closely the realities of social discrimination and system prevalent in their village.
His dream is to pass the police exam and live a respectable life, but in this journey he has to face society, system and personal struggles. As the story progresses, the film takes an emotional turn and leaves the audience thinking.
A proud moment for Indian cinema
Homebound inclusion on the Oscar shortlist proves that content-driven cinema continues to gain global recognition. This achievement is also an inspiration for upcoming filmmakers.
After making it to the Oscar shortlist, the film Homebound has sparked a huge discussion on social media. Film critics believe that this is one of those select Indian films which, along with entertainment, presents social realities in a very sensitive manner. The special thing is that Homebound has reached this position not on the basis of any big budget or spicy formula, but with the help of a strong story and powerful acting. This is the reason why it is being seen as serious cinema on the international stage and its claim in the Oscar race is being considered strong.
Now all eyes are on whether Homebound reaches the final nominations or not.
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