Janhvi Kapoor Homebound Selected as India’s Official Entry for Oscars 2026
Each year, India selects a single film to represent the nation in the Best International Feature Film category at the Academy Awards. The selection comes after carefully reviewing works from across Indian cinema, spanning multiple languages and regions.
On Friday, in Kolkata, N Chandra, chairperson of the selection committee, revealed that Neeraj Ghaywan’s Hindi feature Homebound has been chosen as India’s official submission for the 2026 Oscars. A total of 24 films were in contention this year, and according to Chandra, it was a tough decision since many entries carried powerful themes and left a strong emotional impact.
Produced by Karan Johar and Adar Poonawalla, Homebound features Janhvi Kapoor alongside Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa. The narrative follows two childhood friends from a village in North India who aspire to join the police force. Their journey is riddled with barriers linked to caste and religion, but their bond and resilience drive them forward in pursuit of their dream.
Janhvi Kapoor Homebound Selected as India’s Official Entry for Oscars 2026
The film has already made waves on the international stage. It premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, where it received a standing ovation from audiences. Later, at the Toronto International Film Festival, it secured the position of second runner-up for the International People’s Choice Award.
Expressing his joy, producer Karan Johar said, “It’s a privilege for Homebound to be India’s official entry to the Oscars. Neeraj Ghaywan’s vision will touch hearts across the globe.” Director Neeraj Ghaywan echoed this sentiment, adding, “I am deeply honoured that Homebound will carry India’s voice to the world. It tells a story rooted in our soil, and sharing it internationally is truly humbling.”
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