Indian cinema continues to make its mark on the global stage as ‘Homebound’ has advanced to the next round of voting in the International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards.

The announcement places India alongside 14 other countries, including Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany, Iraq, Japan, Jordan, Norway, Palestine, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, and Tunisia.

According to an ANI report, the Academy revealed that fifteen films worldwide have progressed to this stage, bringing them closer to the final nominations, which will be announced on January 22.

‘Homebound’ has already received widespread acclaim at major international festivals, including Cannes, Toronto, and Melbourne, underscoring its global recognition. This achievement marks a historic milestone, making it only the fifth Indian film to reach the Oscar shortlist for Best International Feature Film in the Academy’s 98-year history.

Starring Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, ‘Homebound’ follows childhood friends Shoaib and Chandan, whose shared ambition to join the police force shapes their journey through friendship, duty, and societal expectations. Janhvi Kapoor lends emotional depth to the story, further enhancing its universal resonance.

The film is directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, and Apoorva Mehta, with co-producers Marijke deSouza and Melita Toscan Du Plantier. Legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese and Pravin Khairnar serve as Executive Producers, adding further prestige to the project.

Sharing the news on Instagram, Ishaan Khatter expressed his pride in the achievement, celebrating the recognition of Indian cinema on such a prominent global platform. The inclusion of ‘Homebound’ in the Oscar shortlist is expected to generate significant anticipation ahead of the final nominations, highlighting India’s growing presence in international film circuits.