There are hardly a handful of Indian films which go on to gain international recognition and become part of major International film festivals and be felicitated at them. Neeraj Ghaywan's Homebound was an Indian movie which was being talked about a lot even in the international movie sphere. It had emerged as one of India's strongest hopes at the 2026 Academy Awards, but has now bowed out of the Oscars race, leaving cinema lovers across the country disappointed.
After making it to the prestigious shortlist in the Best International Feature Film category, the Neeraj Ghaywan directorial failed to secure a final nomination, bringing an abrupt end to the dreams many had pinned on the film's global journey. Vishal Jethwa, who played Chandan in the film, has spoken about his thoughts on the same recently.
The actor, in an interview with Hindustan Times, showcased his optimism as he spoke about how the fact that the film was shortlisted for the Oscars was in itself an achievement. Jethwa expressed his gratitude for being a part of the film.
He said, "While we didn't make the final nominations, being shortlisted among the final 15 films is an honour in itself. Seeing Homebound travel this far and represent India globally has been incredibly special. I will forever be grateful to have been part of this film."
Vishal further went on to add, "Even though we say that we should not expect anything, but ab jab itna aage aa gaye the to thoda expectations toh thi (Now that we had come this far, there were some expectations). No matter how many people saw the film, they liked it and called it a strong story and that in itself feels like an achievement."
When asked about his personal experience of working on this critically appreciated film and then campaigning for it for the Oscars, Vishal candidly admitted how much all of it has changed him. He expressed how the film has made him a different person.
The actor claimed, "Iss film ka poore experience ne, chaahe wo shooting ho ya campaigning ho, ya film festivals attend karna ho, isne mukhe bohot badla hai (The entire experience of making this film, whether it was the shooting, the campaigning, or attending film festivals, has changed me a lot). This has been a liberating experience for me."
He further mentioned, "I have been able to understand myself better, and I have gained this confidence. Sometimes I worry about losing this confidence once all of this is over, and whatever I have learnt and built as a person shouldn't go away."
For those unversed, had Homebound made it to the final nominees at the Oscars 2026, it would have marked a historic moment for Indian cinema, becoming the country's first entry in 25 years to earn a nod in the Best International Feature Film category since Ashutosh Gowariker's Lagaan. Helmed by acclaimed filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan, Homebound features Vishal Jethwa and Ishaan Khatter in pivotal roles, with Janhvi Kapoor playing an important part. The project has been mounted by Karan Johar under the Dharma Productions banner and boasts legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese on board as an executive producer.
