Neeraj Ghaywan’s ‘Homebound’ Makes Oscars Shortlist, Bringing India Closer to History

Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound has been officially shortlisted for the Academy Awards, marking a significant milestone for Indian cinema. The shortlist was announced by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, USA, with Homebound standing as India’s official entry for Best International Feature Film.

The film is the first Indian entry in two years to make it to the Oscars shortlist, following Pan Nalin’s The Last Film Show. If it secures a final nomination, Homebound would become the first Indian film to do so since Ashutosh Gowariker’s Lagaan in 2001.

Starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor in lead roles, Homebound traces the journey of two close friends whose return home turns into a life-altering experience. The narrative is inspired by Basharat Peer’s New York Times article, A Friendship, a Pandemic and a Death Beside the Highway.

Produced by Karan Johar under the Dharma Productions banner, the film also boasts legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese as its executive producer. Recently, Neeraj Ghaywan shared a deeply personal anecdote on social media, revealing how a childhood memory may have planted the seed for Homebound. Posting an old photograph of himself dressed in a police uniform, he reflected on how his life experiences influenced the story and characters.

In interviews, Ghaywan revealed that Vishal Jethwa’s character, Chandan Kumar Valmiki, draws heavily from his own life, including his experiences of hiding his caste identity and living with constant fear of social exclusion. These personal elements shape the film’s emotional core.

Set partly during the COVID-19 pandemic, Homebound explores themes of caste discrimination, ambition, and fragile friendships. The story follows Mohammed Shoaib Ali (Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan, two friends who dream of joining law enforcement—until a single job offer creates a rift that tests their bond.

With the final nominations set to be announced in January, industry watchers believe Homebound stands a strong chance of going all the way, potentially making history as India’s first Oscar-winning film.