Neeraj Ghaywan's 'Homebound' named India's official entry for 2026 Oscars

Just days before its nationwide release, Neeraj Ghaywan’s Hindi film ‘Homebound’ has bagged a huge honour.

- ANINDITA ACHARYA

Its been chosen as India’s official entry for the 2026 Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category. Starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor, the film will hit theatres on September 26. Backed by Karan Johar and Adar Poonawalla, the project also boasts a big Hollywood connection, veteran filmmaker Martin Scorsese is one of the executive producers.

‘The announcement was made in Kolkata on Friday evening by N Chandra, chairperson of the selection committee of the Film Federation of India (FFI), the body responsible for choosing India’s Oscar entry.

‘Among the 24 films submitted this year, “Homebound’ was unanimously picked by a 14-member jury panel, said Chandra. “It was not an easy decision. We weren't acting as judges but as coaches. ‘Homebound’ stood out as it is an extremely well-researched, wellwritten and well-acted film. May this film bring the Oscar for us,” he said.