Karan Johar Shares Emotional Note as Homebound Enters Oscars 2026 International Feature Film Shortlist
Filmmaker and producer Karan Johar expressed pride and emotion after Homebound, starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, secured a place on the Oscars 2026 International Feature Film shortlist. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan, the film has emerged as one of the 15 shortlisted titles competing for a final nomination at the 98th Academy Awards.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the shortlists across multiple categories on December 16, marking a significant milestone for Indian cinema on the global stage. From this list of 15 films, only five final nominees will be selected, with the official nominations set to be revealed on January 22, 2026. The Oscars ceremony will be held on March 15, 2026, with comedian Conan O’Brien returning as host.
Karan Johar Reacts: ‘Over the Moon With Pride’
Soon after the announcement, Dharma Movies shared the news on social media, celebrating the achievement with the film’s poster and a message thanking audiences worldwide for their continued support.
Karan Johar also took to Instagram to pen an emotional note reflecting on the film’s journey. Calling Homebound one of the most meaningful projects in Dharma’s filmography, he wrote that he was “immensely proud, elated, and over the moon” to see the film reach this prestigious stage.
Thanking director Neeraj Ghaywan, Johar highlighted the journey of the film from its festival premieres to the Oscar shortlist. He described the experience as overwhelming and credited the director for bringing a deeply rooted, honest story to life. Johar also applauded the cast and crew for their dedication, concluding his note with optimism about the road ahead.
India’s Strong Presence on the Global Stage
Homebound now finds itself in distinguished company on the shortlist, alongside films from Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany, Iraq, Japan, Jordan, Norway, Palestine, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, and Tunisia. The diverse lineup reflects the Academy’s growing focus on global storytelling and culturally resonant cinema.
This recognition further strengthens India’s presence in international film circuits and underlines the increasing global appeal of Indian narratives that move beyond spectacle to explore grounded, human stories.
About the Film
Homebound follows the journey of childhood friends Shoaib (played by Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan (played by Vishal Jethwa), whose shared ambition of becoming police officers shapes their lives, choices, and moral conflicts. Janhvi Kapoor plays a pivotal role that adds emotional weight and complexity to the story.
The film explores themes of friendship, aspiration, duty, and the social pressures faced by young men in contemporary India. Known for its restrained storytelling and powerful performances, Homebound has been widely praised for its authenticity and emotional depth.
Festival Journey and Streaming Success
The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, where it received strong critical appreciation, and later screened at the Toronto International Film Festival, further cementing its international credentials. Homebound was released on Netflix on November 21, allowing it to reach a global audience and gain momentum across award platforms.
With its Oscar shortlist recognition, Homebound continues its impressive journey, standing as one of the most celebrated Indian films of the year.
As anticipation builds toward the final nominations, the film’s team and fans alike will be hoping that Homebound takes the final step toward securing a historic Oscar nomination.