Mumbai, December 17, 2025 - Celebrated actor Sidharth Malhotra has voiced his support and admiration for the team behind "Homebound," following the film's inclusion in the Oscar's 2026 shortlist for Best International Feature Film. Malhotra hailed the achievement as a "proud moment" for Indian cinema, joining a chorus of voices celebrating the film's journey to the 98th Academy Awards.

"Homebound," directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Karan Johar, stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor. The film tells the story of two childhood friends from rural India and their struggles with caste and socio-economic divides as they aspire to become police officers. The narrative explores themes of friendship, ambition, and the existential reasons behind migration, drawing inspiration from a real-life story during the pandemic as recounted in journalist Basharat Peer's The New York Times article, "Taking Amrit Home".

Malhotra's commendation adds to the widespread acclaim the film has garnered since its premiere at Cannes. Karan Johar, visibly elated, expressed his feelings on social media, stating he was "over the moon" and that it was a "proud and important film" for Dharma Productions. He also thanked Neeraj Ghaywan for making their dreams come true.

"Homebound" was chosen as India's official entry for the Oscars from a pool of 24 films. It now stands among 15 films shortlisted in the Best International Feature Film category, facing competition from entries from Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany, Iraq, Japan, Jordan, Norway, Palestine, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan and Tunisia. The selection marks a significant milestone for Indian cinema, though the journey to the final nominations remains challenging.

The Academy announced the shortlists across 12 categories, including Animated Short Film, Casting, Cinematography, Documentary Feature Film, Documentary Short Film, International Feature Film, Live Action Short Film, Makeup and Hairstyling, Music (Original Score), Music (Original Song), Sound and Visual Effects.

While it is an honor to be shortlisted, "Homebound" faces tough competition from films like France's "It Was Just an Accident," South Korea's "No Other Choice," and Norway's "Sentimental Value". Moreover, India is yet to win an Oscar in the Best International Feature category. The last Indian film to be nominated in the category was "Lagaan" over two decades ago.

The next step involves all Academy members who opt-in for the nominations round to watch all 15 shortlisted films before voting. The final nominations will be announced on January 22, 2026.