Neeraj Ghaywan's 'Homebound': India's Pride at the Oscars

In a significant achievement for Indian cinema, Neeraj Ghaywan's 'Homebound' has been selected by the Film Federation of India as the nation's official submission for the 98th Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category. The film features performances by actors Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor.

During a press conference in Mumbai, the team expressed immense pride and joy over this prestigious recognition. 'This is the film I am proudest of,' stated Ishaan Khatter. The cinematic piece, having garnered critical acclaim at Cannes, the Toronto International Film Festival, and the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, is poised for its theatrical release in India on September 26.

Ghaywan's narrative centers on the poignant journey of two childhood friends from a small village in North India. As they aspire to secure a police job that promises them dignity, mounting desperation threatens their bond. Actor Vishal Jethwa shared insights into his role, emphasizing the guidance he received from Aditya Chopra, advising him to fully trust the director, a piece of advice he embraced during this project.

(With inputs from agencies.)