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 | Sep 19, 2025, 07:43 PM*

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**What’s the Story?**

Neeraj Ghaywan’s much-anticipated film *Homebound* has been chosen as India’s official entry for the 2026 Academy Awards in the Best International Feature category. The announcement was made by the Film Federation of India on Friday, following a rigorous selection process.

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

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**The Selection Process**

The selection committee comprised 12 members, including acclaimed producers, directors, writers, editors, and journalists. N Chandra, the chairperson of the committee, shared insights on the tough decision-making process:

*”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 contention included *Superboys of Malegaon*, *Tanvi the Great*, and *Phule*.

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**Film Plot & Cast**

Produced by industry giants Karan Johar and Adar Poonawalla, *Homebound* features Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor in lead roles. The narrative centers on two childhood friends from a small North Indian village who dream of joining the police force—a profession that promises them the dignity and respect they have long been denied.

*Homebound* is set to release theatrically on September 26, 2025.

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**Reactions from the Makers**

Expressing his gratitude, 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 to the Oscars 2026.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/homebound-chosen-as-india-s-entry-for-oscars-2026/story

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