Neeraj Ghaywan’s film Homebound has been chosen to represent India in the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars 2026. The film stars Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa, and is produced by Dharma Productions.
Producer-director Karan Johar released a heartfelt message, expressing deep gratitude that Homebound has been selected as India’s Oscar entry. He described the moment as deeply humbling and honored, and praised the belief in the film’s story and its team. Ghaywan also shared his thanks, saying he feels proud that the film is rooted in the love for the land and its people. He called it a matter of both pride and humility to take Indian stories to the global stage.
The film already has strong festival credentials. It premiered at Cannes in the Un Certain Regard section earlier this year, and later earned a spot as second runner-up for the International People’s Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival. Homebound is set to release in India theaters on September 26, 2025.
