India has selected “Homebound” as its official submission for the 2026 Academy Awards, prompting emotional responses from the film’s principal cast members who expressed pride and disbelief at the prestigious recognition.
Homebound selected for Oscar 2026
Ishaan Khatter, who leads the ensemble cast, shared his overwhelming satisfaction with the project on Instagram. “This is the film I’ve been proudest of, and even if it wasn’t my film, I would feel the same way. Some films are much bigger than us,” he wrote, praising director Neeraj Ghaywan for creating “the most humane film in some of the most isolated of times.”
The actor highlighted the film’s unique blend of local authenticity and global appeal, noting Ghaywan’s ability to craft “such an Indian film at its heart with a universal language.” Khatter also acknowledged producer Karan Johar for “enabling us, deeply understanding and protecting this film like a father,” and executive producer Martin Scorsese, describing his involvement as bringing them “home” with his “Midas touch.”
Actors take to social media
Co-star Janhvi Kapoor described the entire experience as dreamlike. “Every part of this film has been nothing short of a dream. The journey, the people, what this story means, and how personal it’s been for everyone in our team,” she posted on Instagram. Kapoor emphasized that witnessing the filmmaking process was “truly the reward in itself.”
Vishal Jethwa called the moment “absolutely surreal,” reflecting on its significance for aspiring actors. “It’s the kind of news every actor dreams of hearing one day. To know that Homebound is representing India on the world’s biggest cinematic stage is beyond anything I imagined when I began my journey in films,” he stated.
Jethwa viewed the selection as validation for the entire production team. “This recognition isn’t just a milestone for me personally, it’s a testament to the entire team’s hard work, passion, and the power of Indian storytelling. I feel proud to be a part of a film that carries a piece of our culture and heart to an international audience,” he said.
About Homebound:
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, “Homebound” follows two childhood friends from a North Indian village pursuing police careers that represent dignity and opportunity. The narrative explores how mounting desperation threatens their friendship as they approach their goal.
The film releases in Indian theaters September 26.
