Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa share heartfelt posts as Homebound fails to make it to 2026 Oscars nomination

Despite strong campaigning efforts and positive reviews, Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Karan Johar, has been eliminated from the Oscars race. The film, starring Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, garnered significant attention, with many anticipating an Oscar nomination. Following the official announcement that Homebound is out of the running, Ishaan Khatter shared a heartfelt message.

Taking to Instagram, Ishaan Khatter penned a message, "Homebound is and always was a piece of my heart. It's a story that took us through a journey inwards after daring to look outside the bubble we identify ourselves in. As difficult a reality as it mirrors, this film has always ultimately been hopeful to me in every way I can relate to it, as a human being, as a cinema person.. and a young actor."

He added, "Today, as we somewhat come to an end of one part of its journey, I know I will always look back at it with love and gratitude.. And as a sort of moral compass. @neeraj.ghaywan Ilove you, brother. There are very few people I can say this about, but I know I can always trust your conscience as a yardstick. Love to all the heroes behind the camera and to all of you who owned this film and spoke of it like your own. Homebound co no feeling is final."

Vishal Jethwa’s heartfelt post

Vishal Jethwa also shared his reaction to Homebound not making the cut for the 2026 Oscars. The actor expressed his gratitude for being part of the project, despite the outcome. Jethwa, who portrays Chandan in the film, also noted his pride in the film's journey, acknowledging that it made it to the top 15.

"Yes, we couldn't make it to the Oscars nominations, and of course, it broke the hope we carried with us. But I believe failure is not when you fail; it's when you don't try. And the only thing the whole Homebound team did from the very first day was to just TRY," he wrote.

"I am proud of the fact that we could make it to the top 15 and am fully satisfied with what we were able to do, having our name associated with the prestigious name called the Oscars. It's more than what I ever imagined, desired, or deserved," the young actor added.

"Will always be grateful to Jogi sir, Neeraj sir, and Karan sir. My love and respect to Ishaan, Janhvi, and my Homebound family. Now sticking to the

Guru mantra of life taught by my Guruji, Shoaib Khan sir. Thank you, BHAGWAN," Vishal concluded while penning a popular motivational couplet.

Oscar’s nomination

The Oscar nominations, revealed on Thursday, brought disappointing news for "Homebound," as it was officially removed from contention. The films nominated for Best International Feature Film include The Secret Agent, It Was Just An Accident, Sentimental Value, Sirat, and The Voice Of Hind Rajab.

If "Homebound" had been nominated, it would have been a significant moment, marking the first Indian film to achieve this feat in 25 years, since "Lagaan." Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Karan Johar's Dharma Productions, the film stars Vishal Jethwa and Ishaan Khatter, with Janhvi Kapoor in a key role, and is executive produced by Martin Scorsese. This project brought together a notable cast and crew.

"Homebound," directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Karan, was India's official submission for the Oscars last year, featuring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor. Despite making the shortlist, the film didn't advance to the final nominations. The recent Academy Award announcements revealed that "Homebound" did not secure a place among the top five contenders, ending its journey in the awards race.