‘Homebound’ Selected as India’s Official Entry for Oscars 2026

In Brief

• Ishan Khatter-Janhvi Kapoor's 'Homebound' in the Oscar race

• This film is based on the article “Taking Amrit Home” from The New York Times

• Second place honor for People's Choice Award at TIFF

(Homebound) The Hindi film Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, has been officially selected by India for the 2026 Oscars. Starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor in lead roles, this film has captured the audience's attention.

The film premiered in 2025 at the Cannes Film Festival in the 'Un Certain Regard' special section. At that time, the film received a standing ovation. Subsequently, Homebound also made a strong impression at the Toronto International Film Festival. At TIFF, the film was honored with the second place for the People's Choice Award.

This film, produced under the Dharma Productions banner, is based on the New York Times article “Taking Amrit Home.” It is the story of two friends struggling to overcome racial and religious disparities to change their lives. It also depicts the reality of migrant workers during the lockdown period.

The story of the film revolves around two young men, Mohammad Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan Kumar (Vishal Jethwa), who dream of becoming police officers. However, religion and caste create obstacles in their path. The character Sudha Bharti (Janhvi Kapoor) becomes a ray of hope in the story. Despite her difficult circumstances, she dares to dream big and fights to achieve them.