Los Angeles: Neeraj Ghaywan’s acclaimed drama Homebound, India’s official submission for the 98th Academy Awards, has secured a place on the prestigious shortlist of 15 films in the Best International Feature Film category, as announced by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS).
All eyes are now on the final nominations, which will be announced on January 22, ahead of the Academy Awards ceremony later this year.
Produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions and executive-produced by Martin Scorsese, the film stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor. It follows the story of two childhood friends from a North Indian village whose ambitions to join the police force are tested by duty, social pressures, and personal bonds.
“This is a proud moment for Indian cinema,” said producer Karan Johar in a statement following the announcement. Director Neeraj Ghaywan echoed the se
ntiment, noting the film’s journey from its Cannes premiere to this global stage as “overwhelming.”
It is the fifth film in Indian cinema to be shortlisted for Best International Feature Film.
‘Homebound’ had received a standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival in France and earned recognition at other international film festivals before being chosen as the official entry from India for the Academy Awards. It has been praised for its emotional depth and storytelling.
Industry experts believe Homebound’s advancement to the top 5 nominees in the Oscar race could significantly boost global recognition for Indian cinema. Previously, only 3 films – Mother India (1957), Salaam Bombay! (1988), and Lagaan (2001) – had earned nominations with none securing the win.
Top 15 Shortlisted Films – International Feature Film (Oscars 2026)
Homebound – India
Belén – Argentina
The Secret Agent – Brazil
It Was Just an Accident – France
Sound of Falling – Germany
The President’s Cake – Iraq (Iraq’s first-ever entry to make the shortlist)
No Other Choice – South Korea
Sentimental Value – Norway
Sirât – Jordan
Late Shift – Switzerland
Left-Handed Girl – Spain
Palestine 87 – Palestine
Taiwan Summer – Taiwan
Tunisia Nights – Tunisia
Japan’s Silent Wave – Japan