Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa’s film ‘Homebound’ has brought glory to Indian cinema on the international stage. After receiving a 9-minute standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival, the film has now been shortlisted for the International Feature Film category at the 2026 Oscars.
Homebound In Oscar 2026: Ishaan Khatter and Janhvi Kapoor’s film 'Homebound' has once again proven that a good film doesn't need box office numbers to succeed. Having received a 9-minute standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival, this film has now paved its way to the Oscars.
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and starring Vishal Jethwa and Ishaan Khatter, 'Homebound' was recently shortlisted for the 98th Academy Awards, leaving producer Karan Johar deeply emotional. It is currently unclear in which category the film has been included for the Oscars.
‘Homebound’s Journey
‘Homebound’ has proven that a great story and excellent performances can earn respect and recognition beyond box office earnings. The film is directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, while Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions produced it. The film’s brilliant acting by Vishal Jethwa, Ishaan Khatter, and Janhvi Kapoor has earned it praise from both critics and audiences.
The film gained international attention immediately after receiving a 9-minute standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival. Now, being shortlisted for the Oscars is a matter of pride for Indian cinema.
15 Films Shortlisted for Oscar 2026
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has shortlisted a total of 15 films in the International Feature Film category, including India’s ‘Homebound’. Other countries’ shortlisted films are as follows:
- Argentina: Belen
- Brazil: The Secret Agent
- France: It Was Just An Accident
- Germany: Sound of Falling
- Iraq: The President Cake
- Japan: Kokuho
- Jordan: All That’s Left of You
- Norway: Sentiment Value
- Palestine: Palestine 36
- South Korea: No Other Choice
- Spain: Sirat
- Switzerland: Late Shift
- Taiwan: Left-Handed Girl
- Tunisia: The Voice of Hind Rajab
Karan Johar’s Reaction
Karan Johar became very emotional after the announcement of the film’s shortlisting for the Oscars. On the official Instagram account of Dharma Productions, he expressed his gratitude, writing,
'Our film ‘Homebound’ has been shortlisted in the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards. This is a proud moment for Indian cinema.'
Now fans are waiting to see which five films will make it to the final nominations. This final list will be announced on January 22, 2026. The Oscar 2026 ceremony will be held on March 15, 2026. Comedian Conan O’Brien will once again take charge of the hosting duties. Fans hope that ‘Homebound’s’ excellent story and acting will take it to the final nomination.
