We want your prayers: Karan Johar on Homebound’s Oscar journey
‘Homebound’, produced by Karan Johar and directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, has made it to the 15 films shortlisted for the Best International Feature Film at the 98th Academy Awards, which is a significant achievement for Indian cinema.

Karan Johar recently talked about himself homebound The journey after the film was selected in the Best International Feature Film category for the 98th Academy Awards. Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, the film is one of 15 films selected from 86 countries and territories, representing a notable milestone for Indian cinema as it moves to the next stage of the Oscar selection process. The shortlist was unveiled with nominees in 12 other categories including documentary, lyrics, score, cinematography, sound, visual effects, make-up and hairstyling and the newly introduced casting category.
At the trailer launch event of his upcoming film ‘Main Tera, Tu Meri, Tu Meri Main Tera’, the filmmaker talked about the journey of the film. homebound And the significance of its inclusion on the Oscar shortlist. The movie is like this Childhood friends Shoaib (Ishaan Khattar) and Chandan (Vishal Jethwa)Whose aspirations to join the police force shape the story. The film’s focus on their shared dream and ambition and friendship has been loved by audiences and critics.
Sharing his happiness and expressing hope, he said, “This is a film for which we look forward to all your prayers. We have come a long way with Homebound. When we started the film, we prayed that we would make it to Cannes. Then we prayed that we would make it to Toronto. Then we prayed that our film would be the official selection for the Academy Awards. Then we had to pray that out of 92 countries, which eventually became 86, we would make it to the top Will come in 15. There are only 5 feature films from India which have reached this position. Salaam Bombayand there has been rentand there has been Last movie show. And Mother Indiaand now homebound, Those who have reached that point are very close to the final five. Whether we make it or not, I want your prayers. I want your blessings.”
Watch the video here:
This announcement was received with enthusiasm Within the team, e.g. homebound It has joined the select group of Indian films to reach this milestone in the history of the Academy Awards. The shortlist includes films from around the world, narrowed down from 86 submissions.
Earlier, KJo had expressed his feelings on Instagram by sharing a screenshot of the official shortlist, saying, “I’m not sure I can explain how proud, excited and on cloud nine I am with the journey of #HOMEBOUND. All of us at @DharmaMovies are privileged to have this proud and important film in our filmography. From Cannes to making the Oscar shortlist to making so many of our dreams come true.” Thank you @neeraj.ghaywan, love everyone! Onwards and upwards.. now streaming on @netflix_in.”
The film’s progression from Cannes to the Oscar shortlist represents a remarkable achievement for its makers and the Indian film industry. Johar credited director Neeraj Ghaywan for his role in the film’s success and acknowledged the tremendous support and dedication of the cast, crew and production teams. Recognition by international film festivals and the Academy underlines the impact of *Homebound* on audiences globally.
homebound is currently streaming on Netflix India, giving a wider audience the chance to experience the story that has earned critical acclaim and international attention.