Vishal Jethwa On Homebound Reaching Oscars 2026: Ummeed Hai Deserving Film Ko Award Mile | Exclusive

Homebound,

directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, is India’s official entry to the Oscars 2026. Vishal Jethwa, Ishaan Khatter and Janhvi Kapoor headline the film based on caste prejudice, racism and migrant workers’ struggles during the COVID-19 pandemic. In an exclusive interview with Zoom, Vishal, who plays Chandan Kumar in Homebound, reacted to the film’s global recognition and achievement.

Vishal Jethwa on Homebound's Oscars 2026 selection

Talking to us, Vishal revealed that the first call after the Oscars 2026 announcement was to his mother. When asked about his expectations from the Academy Awards, the actor said, “Ummeed toh hai ki Homebound jeete. Lekin main chahta hu ki sabse zyada deserving film ko award mile. Chahe voh koi bhi country se ho. Main chahta hu ki fair decision ho. Usse zyada meri expectation aur hope nahi hai.”(Translation: I hope Homebound wins. But, I want the most deserving film to win the Oscars 2026. It may be from any country. I look forward to a fair decision here. I don’t have any other expectations.)

ALSO READ: Homebound Movie Review: Vishal Jethwa-Ishaan Khatter's Flawless Performance Gives Emotional Weight To Neeraj Ghaywan's SophomoreHe further added, “Main toh itne mein hi khush hu ki joh hua voh accha hua aur hope karta hu ki aage bhi accha ho. Main kisi achievement ke liye wait nahi kar raha hu khush hone ke liye.”(Translation: I am content with whatever we have achieved till now. I am looking forward to better things hereon. I don’t believe in waiting for some major achievement or milestone to celebrate Homebound.)

About Homebound

Homebound is inspired by the New York Times 2020 essay Taking Amrit Home. It is the story of Mohammed Shoaib Ali (Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan Kumar Valmiki (Vishal Jethwa) from Mapur. The fire within them to battle societal prejudices leads them to a crossroad where friendship, love and equality are tested.

Homebound is produced by Dharma Productions and premiered at the Cannes Film Festival 2025. It is currently running in theatres.