India makes a strong mark at the Oscars 2026 as the film Homebound enters the Top 15 shortlist for Best International Feature Film. Competing with entries from 86 countries, the film highlights friendship, struggle, and social realities during the COVID-19 lockdown.
India Makes Waves at Oscars 2026 as ‘Homebound’ Secures Top-15 Spot
New Delhi: India is once again making its presence felt on the world's most prestigious cinematic stage, the Academy Awards. The Indian film "Homebound," nominated in the 'Best International Feature Film' category at the 98th Academy Awards, has made it to the top 15 shortlist. This achievement is a moment of pride for Indian cinema and showcases the country's creative strength on a global platform.
This year, the Best International Feature Film category included films from 86 countries worldwide. After tough competition, only 15 films were shortlisted, including India's "Homebound." The Academy announced the shortlists in a total of 12 categories, including Documentary, Original Music Score, and the newly introduced Casting category.
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The film's producer Karan Johar, director Neeraj Ghaywan, and actors Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, and Vishal Jethwa have expressed their happiness at "Homebound's" success. They all called it a collective achievement for Indian cinema and expressed hope that the film will reach the final nominations. Congratulations are pouring in for the film on social media as well.
Other films included in the shortlist are strong contenders such as Argentina's "Belén," Brazil's "The Secret Agent," France's "It Was Just an Accident," Japan's "Kokuhō," South Korea's "No Other Choice," and Germany's "Sound of Falling." "Homebound" is expected to face stiff competition from all of them.
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Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, "Homebound" is a sensitive social drama inspired by a New York Times article. The film depicts the journey of two close friends Chandan and Shoaib during the COVID-19 lockdown. This story explores dreams, identity, friendship, and struggle, while also highlighting the pain of migrant workers and the harsh realities of discrimination present in Indian society. Eyes are now on the final nominations.
After being shortlisted, Academy members will cast their votes in the next round. Watching all 15 films is mandatory for the final nominations. India last received a final nomination in 2001 with 'Lagaan', in 1988 with 'Salaam Bombay', and in 1957 with 'Mother India'. Therefore, there are high hopes that 'Homebound' will once again make history.
