In a moment of immense pride for the Indian film industry, the drama Homebound has officially been shortlisted for the coveted Best International Feature Film category at the upcoming 98th Academy Awards. This announcement marks a significant global recognition for the project and a major milestone for Indian cinema on the world stage.
The Official Announcement and Industry Reaction
The news was formally confirmed by the film's production house, Dharma Productions, via its official Instagram account on December 17, 2025. The studio shared the groundbreaking update with a note of gratitude, stating they are “deeply grateful for the extraordinary love and support we’ve received from around the world.” This shortlisting places Homebound among a select group of international films being considered for the final Oscar nominations, which will be announced at a later date.
What This Means for Indian Cinema
The journey to the Academy Awards is highly competitive, and making it to the shortlist is an achievement in itself. It signifies that the film has resonated with the Academy's voters during the preliminary rounds. This recognition for Homebound, featuring actors like Ishaan Khatter and Visha Jethwa, underscores the growing creative prowess and storytelling depth emerging from India. It brings global attention to the country's cinematic output beyond the mainstream, potentially opening doors for more diverse Indian narratives to reach international audiences and critics.
The Road Ahead to the Oscars
While the shortlist is a cause for celebration, the path forward involves another crucial round of voting. The Academy's International Feature Film Committee will now screen the shortlisted films to decide the final five nominees. The official nomination list for all categories of the 98th Oscars will be revealed in early 2026, leading up to the grand ceremony. The industry and fans alike will now be watching closely to see if Homebound can secure a historic nomination, joining the elite list of Indian films that have previously achieved this feat.
This development is not just a win for the cast and crew of Homebound but a celebratory moment for the entire Indian film fraternity. It highlights the universal appeal of compelling stories and reinforces India's position as a formidable force in global cinema.
