New Delhi: Acclaimed filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan’s Hindi film Homebound has been chosen as India’s official entry to the 2025 Academy Awards. The Film Federation of India (FFI) announced the decision on Friday after reviewing 24 films across multiple languages.
The selection was confirmed by FFI chairman and veteran producer-director N. Chandra, who hailed the film for its powerful storytelling and social relevance.
Featuring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor in lead roles, Homebound traces the journey of two childhood friends from rural North India — Mohammed Shoaib (Khatter) and Chandan Kumar (Jethwa). Both aspire to join the police force as a way to escape caste discrimination, religious divides, and systemic inequality. Their bond is pushed to the brink as they confront deep-rooted social prejudices.
The film has already made waves internationally, premiering in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival before earning acclaim at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
With its strong socio-political themes and emotional core, Homebound now carries India’s hopes at the Oscars.
