Neeraj Ghaywan’s ‘Homebound’ is India’s official entry for Oscars 2026

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

*By Isha Sharma | September 19, 2025*

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**India’s Official Entry for the 2026 Academy Awards**

Neeraj Ghaywan’s film *Homebound* has been chosen as India’s official submission for the 2026 Academy Awards in the Best International Feature category. The announcement was made by the Film Federation of India on Friday.

A total of 24 films across various Indian languages were considered for this prestigious honor. *Homebound* was selected over other notable contenders including *I Want to Talk*, *Jugnuma*, *The Bengal Files*, *Pushpa 2*, and *Kesari: Chapter 2*.

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**The Selection Process**

The decision was made by a 12-member selection committee comprising producers, directors, writers, editors, and journalists. N Chandra, the chairperson of the committee, shared insights into the challenging process, saying, “It was a very difficult choice. These were films that touched the lives of people. We were not judges but coaches. We were searching for players who have made their mark.”

Other films in the race included *Superboys of Malegaon*, *Tanvi the Great*, and *Phule* among others.

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**About the Film: Plot and Cast**

*Homebound* is produced by renowned filmmaker Karan Johar and businessman Adar Poonawalla. The film stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor in lead roles.

The story revolves around two childhood friends from a small village in North India who dream of joining the police force—a profession that promises them the dignity and respect long denied to them. The film explores themes of aspiration, friendship, and social identity.

*Homebound* is set for a theatrical release on September 26, 2025.

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**Reactions from the Creators**

Expressing his gratitude for the honor, producer Karan Johar said, “We are deeply honored and humbled that *Homebound* has been selected as India’s official entry to the Academy Awards. Neeraj Ghaywan’s labour of love is sure to find a home in a million hearts across the world.”

Director Neeraj Ghaywan added, “To take our stories to the world and represent India at one of the biggest global stages for cinema is both humbling and a matter of pride, and for this I am extremely grateful.”

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*Stay tuned for more updates on India’s journey at the Oscars 2026.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/homebound-chosen-as-india-s-entry-for-oscars-2026/story

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