Vishal Jethwa Reacts to Homebound's Oscar Selection: "Surreal Moment"

Actor Vishal Jethwa expressed profound gratitude and excitement as his film Homebound was named India’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 98th Academy Awards, set to take place on March 15, 2026. Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and featuring Ishaan Khatter and Janhvi Kapoor, the film boasts legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese as an executive producer, adding to its global prestige.

“This moment feels absolutely surreal,” Jethwa said in a statement. “To know that Homebound is representing India on the world’s biggest cinematic stage is beyond anything I imagined when I began my journey in films.” The 31-year-old actor, known for his compelling performances in Mardaani 2 and Salaam Venky, credited director Ghaywan for pushing him to new heights as an artist. “I’m incredibly thankful to Neeraj for entrusting me with a role that challenged me and transformed me as a person,” he added.

Homebound, inspired by journalist Basharat Peer’s The New York Times article “Taking Amrit Home,” explores the childhood friendship between a Muslim and a Dalit, both striving for a police job that promises the dignity long denied to them due to their surnames. The film’s poignant narrative has resonated deeply, earning a nine-minute standing ovation at its world premiere in the Un Certain Regard category at the Cannes Film Festival. It also secured the Best Film and Best Director awards for Ghaywan at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) and was the second runner-up in the International People’s Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival.

Also Read: Hindi Blockbuster ‘Homebound’ Selected as India’s Oscar Entry for 2026

Jethwa praised his co-stars Khatter and Kapoor for their collaborative spirit, noting, “They were more than just co-actors; they were supportive collaborators who made every scene richer with their energy and generosity.” He emphasized that the film’s selection for the Oscars reflects the collective dedication of the entire team. “This recognition is a testament to the team’s hard work, passion, and the power of Indian storytelling. I feel proud to be part of a film that carries a piece of our culture and heart to an international audience,” he said.

Produced by Karan Johar and Adar Poonawalla of Dharma Productions, Homebound is slated for a theatrical release on September 26, 2025. Its selection as India’s Oscar entry underscores the growing influence of Indian cinema on the global stage, with Jethwa calling the opportunity to represent his country “truly humbling.”

Also Read: Hindi Blockbuster ‘Homebound’ Selected as India’s Oscar Entry for 2026