How Neeraj Ghaywan’s Masterpiece Captivates Global Audiences
Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound, executive produced by Martin Scorsese and backed by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, has been selected as India’s official entry for the 2026 Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category.
This moving drama, inspired by Basharat Peer’s New York Times essay “Taking Amrit Home,” explores the lives of two childhood friends from rural North India Chandan (a Dalit) and Shoaib (a Muslim) as they aspire to join the police force amidst caste prejudices and pandemic-era struggles.
Featuring powerhouse performances by Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, with Janhvi Kapoor in a supporting role, Homebound premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival to a standing ovation and won the second runner-up prize at the Toronto International Film Festival.
Cinematographer Pratik Shah’s evocative visuals further elevate the narrative, making it a global contender for the Oscars.
With its theatrical release set for September 26, 2025, the film is poised to resonate with audiences worldwide, offering a message of hope and resilience.
