In an era where Bollywood is increasingly blending commercial appeal with profound social commentary, ‘Homebound’ emerges as a testament to cinema’s power to bridge cultures. Featuring the dynamic trio of Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, and Vishal Jethwa, this film climbed to the top 15 in the Oscars 2026 shortlist from a competitive pool of 86 worldwide submissions, only to miss the final nominations.
Vishal Jethwa, the rising star from modest roots, spoke candidly about the rollercoaster ride. ‘For someone like me, from a world where aspirations seem distant, this was a dream realized. Representing India internationally and earning global acclaim fills me with pride,’ he told reporters. The film’s reception underscored a vital truth: genuine, soul-stirring films cut through barriers and touch souls everywhere.
‘It’s proof that dedication and honesty in art yield results,’ Vishal reflected. He profusely thanked director Neeraj Ghaywan’s foresight, Karan Johar’s trust in the vision, and the camaraderie from Ishaan and Janhvi, which fueled his performance. ‘Every moment on set was a lesson in excellence.’
Despite the Oscar setback, ‘Homebound’ continues to reverberate on global forums. ‘The ongoing feedback from audiences worldwide is incredibly validating. This isn’t the end; it’s a launchpad for more stories,’ Vishal affirmed, brimming with optimism for what’s next in his career.
