New Delhi, December 17, 2025:
India has achieved a major milestone at the Oscars 2026 as the Hindi film Homebound has officially made it to the Academy Awards shortlist in the Best International Feature Film category. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) announced the top 15 shortlisted films on December 16, selecting Homebound from 86 global entries.
With this achievement, India moves closer to a historic Oscar nomination after more than two decades.
About ‘Homebound’: A Story Rooted in Reality
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Homebound is a deeply emotional drama set in rural India during the COVID-19 pandemic. The film follows the lives of two childhood friends, Shoaib and Chandan, played by Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa.
Both young men dream of joining the Indian police force, believing it will give them respect, financial security, and dignity. However, their journey becomes increasingly difficult as they face caste barriers, systemic discrimination, and the pressure of migration. As challenges grow, their friendship is pushed to the brink.
The film also stars Janhvi Kapoor in a key role and is produced by Dharma Productions. Adding global prestige, legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese serves as the executive producer.
Why This Shortlist Matters for India
Reaching the Oscars shortlist is a rare achievement for Indian cinema. Homebound is now only the fifth Indian film to reach this stage in the International Feature Film category.
Earlier Indian films to achieve this distinction include:
- Mother India (1957)
- Salaam Bombay! (1988)
- Lagaan (2001)
- Last Film Show (Chhello Show) (2023 – shortlist)
Notably, Lagaan was the last Indian film to receive an official Oscar nomination, making Homebound India’s strongest hope in 24 years.
What Happens Next? The Road to the Oscars
Although making the shortlist is a major victory, the final challenge still remains. From these 15 films, only five will be officially nominated.
Important Oscar Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Final Oscar Nominations | January 22, 2026 |
| 98th Academy Awards Ceremony | March 15, 2026 |
In the next voting round, Academy members must watch all 15 shortlisted films before casting their final votes.
Strong Global Competition Ahead
Homebound faces tough competition from acclaimed international films, including:
- Brazil – The Secret Agent
- France – It Was Just an Accident
- South Korea – No Other Choice
- Germany – Sound of Falling
Despite the competition, industry experts believe Homebound has a strong emotional appeal that could resonate with global voters.
Industry Celebrates the Achievement
The announcement sparked widespread celebration across the Indian film industry.
Producer Karan Johar shared his excitement on social media, calling the moment “surreal” and expressing pride in the film’s journey from Cannes Film Festival to the Oscars shortlist. Director Neeraj Ghaywan, best known for Masaan, thanked audiences worldwide for their continued support.
Currently streaming on Netflix, Homebound continues to gain international visibility as anticipation builds toward the final nominations.
Final Word
With its powerful storytelling, socially relevant themes, and international backing, Homebound stands as one of India’s most promising Oscar contenders in recent years. All eyes are now on January 22, 2026, when the final nominations will reveal whether India finally breaks its long Oscar drought.
