Oscars 2025: India Selects Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound as Official Entry
Ashwini Gambo
India has made a powerful choice for the 2025 Oscars, selecting Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound as its official entry in the Best International Feature Film category. The announcement came from the Film Federation of India during a session chaired by veteran filmmaker N. Chandra in Kolkata, where a 14-member jury unanimously endorsed Ghaywan’s second feature film, following his critically acclaimed debut Masaan.
Homebound tells a gritty and deeply human story centered on Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan (Vishal Jethwa), two young men striving to break free from the social identities that have long confined them. The ensemble cast also includes Janhvi Kapoor, Shalini Vatsa, and Shreedhar Dubey, who bring depth and nuance to this compelling narrative. The Hindi-language film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year, earning widespread critical acclaim for its raw portrayal of friendship and resilience.
Backed by Dharma Productions, the film carries an impressive endorsement with legendary director Martin Scorsese serving as executive producer. The narrative draws inspiration from a 2020 New York Times article by journalist Basharat Peer, weaving a story that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. It is based on a poignant real-life image from India’s first lockdown: two friends making a 1,500-kilometre trek, with one supporting the other after a fainting spell caused by the intense heat a powerful snapshot of loyalty and endurance.
With Homebound set to represent India on the global stage at the Oscars, anticipation is high for the film to highlight contemporary Indian storytelling to audiences worldwide.
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