The selection of "Homebound," directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, as India's official entry for the 2026 Oscars has stirred debate and controversy. The Film Federation of India (FFI) Chairman, Firdausul Hasan, has responded to the concerns raised, particularly regarding the film's compliance with Academy rules concerning theatrical release and screening timelines.
As per Academy regulations, a film must have a theatrical release and maintain a run of at least seven consecutive days within the eligibility window, which spans from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. Given that "Homebound" is scheduled for release this week, questions arose about whether it technically met the deadline.
In response to these concerns, FFI Chairman Firdausul Hasan clarified that "Homebound" is indeed being released in cinema halls before September 30, satisfying the initial requirement. Furthermore, he stated that the filmmakers have provided an undertaking guaranteeing the film will be screened in a cinema hall for a week. Hasan emphasized that "the rules and legalities have been duly followed, and only then was 'Homebound' entered into the list of films that the jury watched". A source clarified that the seven-day run doesn't necessarily need to fall within the eligibility window; it serves as a protocol to ensure a public release and some revenue generation for the filmmakers. The "Homebound" team has assured the jury that the film will meet the required theatrical run.
N Chandra, the jury head for the FFI, has expressed strong confidence in "Homebound"'s potential at the Oscars, highlighting its authentic portrayal of India's societal issues. He described it as a "very grass-rooted film" that stood out among 24 films for its subject matter, performances, emotional depth, and direct depiction of the divide in rural India. Chandra said that the film had the ethos of India. He also dismissed concerns that the film might portray India negatively, asserting that its exploration of caste, religion, and harsh societal realities is both essential and truthful.
"Homebound" features Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa as two young men from rural India aspiring to government jobs while grappling with caste and communal prejudice. Janhvi Kapoor also plays a lead role. The film has already garnered international acclaim, premiering at the Cannes Film Festival, where it received a nine-minute standing ovation, and winning second runner-up in the People's Choice category at the Toronto International Film Festival. The film is based on the New York Times article 'Taking Amrit Home'.
Karan Johar, who backed the film, shared his excitement on Instagram, calling it one of the "pinch me" moments. Ghaywan also expressed his elation, while Kapoor conveyed that every part of the film has been nothing short of a dream.
"Homebound" is scheduled to release in India on September 26, 2025.
