Mumbai: Actors Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa are elated as their film Homebound has been selected as India’s official entry for the Oscars 2026.
Taking to social media, the trio expressed immense pride and joy over the milestone. Ishaan Khatter shared a heartfelt note, giving special shoutouts to the team.
“This is the film I’m proudest of, and even if it weren’t mine, I’d feel the same way. Some films are much bigger than us. @neeraj.ghaywan, I love you so much, brother—you deserve this and more. You’ve made the most humane film in some of the most isolated times, and it’s an honor to be a vessel for your vision. Only you could make such an Indian film at its heart with a universal language. @karanjohar, thank you for enabling us, understanding deeply, and protecting this film like a father,” Ishaan wrote on Instagram.
He also acknowledged filmmaker Martin Scorsese, who served as executive producer for Homebound, calling him “the greatest @martinscorsese_ whose Midas touch brought us home.” Ishaan further praised his co-stars Janhvi Kapoor and Vishal Jethwa, celebrating their journey with the film.
Janhvi Kapoor shared her own reflections, writing, “Every part of this film has been nothing short of a dream—the journey, the people, what this story means, and how personal it’s been for everyone on our team. At every step, I’ve been thankful to witness this journey, which in my mind was truly the reward in itself. Everything since has been a celebration of these incredible people I love and respect for their talent, goodness, and courage.”
Vishal Jethwa described the moment as surreal, saying, “This is the kind of news every actor dreams of. To know that Homebound is representing India on the world’s biggest cinematic stage is beyond anything I imagined when I began my journey in films.”
He also reflected on his collaboration with director Neeraj Ghaywan and co-stars Ishaan Khatter and Janhvi Kapoor: “This recognition isn’t just a personal milestone; it’s a testament to the entire team’s hard work, passion, and the power of Indian storytelling. I’m proud to be part of a film that carries a piece of our culture and heart to an international audience.”
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Homebound tells the story of two childhood friends from a small North Indian village who pursue a police job that promises them the dignity they have long been denied. But as they inch closer to their dream, growing desperation threatens their bond.
Homebound is slated for release in Indian theatres on September 26.
