Following the announcement that "Homebound" has been shortlisted for the 2026 Oscars in the Best International Feature Film category, Bollywood actress Kiara Advani has expressed her excitement and congratulated the team behind the film. The film's selection has generated considerable buzz within the Indian film industry, with several other celebrities also sharing their positive reactions.
"Homebound" premiered in the "Un Certain Regard" section at the Cannes Film Festival 2025, where it received a standing ovation, highlighting its emotional resonance. The film is reportedly inspired by a real-life incident documented in a 2020 New York Times article, depicting the migrant crisis during the COVID-19 lockdown. The storyline revolves around friendship, dignity, and social injustices prevalent in contemporary India, focusing on two childhood friends navigating systemic biases.
Kiara Advani took to social media to share her reaction to the news. Other Bollywood figures, including Karan Johar, have also lauded the film, with Johar expressing gratitude to Shah Rukh Khan for his support and praise. Khan himself described "Homebound" as "gentle, honest, and soulful".
The film stars Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa. Karan Johar has penned an emotional post about the film's Oscar shortlist selection.
India's submissions to the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars have been infrequent historically, making "Homebound"'s selection a noteworthy achievement.
Kiara Advani has several projects lined up for 2025 and 2026, including "Game Changer," "War 2," "No Entry 2," and "Don 3". She is also expected to star in "Toxic", a film set in Goa that explores the operations of a drug cartel. "War 2," which also stars Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR, has already seen box office success.
The film industry is closely watching "Homebound"'s journey through the Oscar selection process, as it represents a significant moment for Indian cinema on the global stage.
