Reportedly, ‘Homebound’, India’s official entry for the 2026 Academy Awards, has accomplished a major milestone. The film has been shortlisted among the top 15 contenders for Best International Feature Film. This marks a proud moment for Indian cinema.
The shortlist was announced by Academy Awards on January 5, 2026. Homebound has has emerged as the only fifth Indian film to reach this stage in Oscar history. The achievement has generated strong excitement across the industry.
The final nominations will be announced on January 22. The winners will be revealed at the Oscars ceremony on March 15 in Los Angeles.
India now moves a step closer to global recognition.
Neeraj Ghaywan’s directorial Homebound produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions features Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa in lead roles.
The story centres around childhood friends from a North Indian village. Inspired by real-life events amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the film explores their struggle to escape low social status by pursuing police jobs. The narrative focuses on dignity and survival.
Beyond its central plot, the film addresses themes of immigration, mobility, interfaith friendships, and the pandemic’s impact on the underprivileged. These themes appear to have resonated strongly with global audiences.
Homebound has already premiered at major international film festivals. These include Cannes and Toronto, where it received critical appreciation. Its global journey has strengthened its Oscar prospects.
The film also gained added international attention due to Martin Scorsese serving as executive producer. His association helped elevate the film’s global profile.
If Homebound secures a final nomination, it could end India’s long wait for an Oscar in this category since Lagaan in 2002. Fans and trade analysts remain hopeful. Many believe the film has a strong chance of entering the final nominations.
Other shortlisted films include ‘Belén’ from Argentina, ‘The Secret Agent’ from Brazil, ‘It Was Just an Accident’ from France, ‘Sound of Falling’ from Germany, ‘Kokuho’ from Japan, and ‘No Other Choice’ from South Korea. Entries from Iraq, Jordan, Norway, Palestine, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, and Tunisia are also in the race.
News Edit KV Raman
