Despite high expectations, the Bollywood film Homebound did not secure a nomination at the 98th Academy Awardsin the Best International Film category. Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor, the film had been widely praised for its storyline and actor's performance.
Earlier on January 6, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) announced the list of films that have advanced to the next round of voting in the International Feature Film category. Homebound is among the 14 films on the list.
Karan Johar reacts to Homebound’s exit from the Oscar 2026 race
On Thursday, filmmaker Karan Johar who co-produced Homebound took to his Instagram and shared a collage of stills from Homebound, writing, "Proud!!! Love you @neeraj.ghaywan for allowing us to bask in your light! #Homebound (sic)."
Resharing the same Instagram story, National Film Award-winning director Neeraj Ghaywan expressed his gratitude and wrote, "Thank you @karanjohar! You have been an absolute rock. Couldn't have come this far without you. Love you (sic)." Take a look below:
The nominations for the 98th Academy Awards was announced on January 22, at 7 pm IST by actors Danielle Brooks and Lewis Pullman. Notably, the Oscar award ceremony will take place on March 15, 2026.
Homebound: Plot and cast details
The film follows the story of two friends, Mohammad Shoaib (played by Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan Kumar (played by Vishal Jethwa), who dream of becoming police officers. However, societal barriers such as caste and religious disparities, repeatedly stand in their way. The character of Sudha Bharti (played by Janhvi Kapoor) plays a supportive role in their journey.
Neeraj Ghaywan's directorial Homebound is available to stream on OTT platform Netflix.
Also Read: Oscars 2026 Nominations LIVE updates: Danielle Brooks and Lewis Pullman begin announcement