'Homebound': India's Oscar entry to stream on Netflix soon
What's the story
Homebound, India's official entry for the 98th Academy Awards, will be available on Netflix from Friday, November 21, the streaming service announced. Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Dharma Productions, the film stars Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, with Janhvi Kapoor in a pivotal emotional role. It is backed by Karan Johar, among other notable investors.
Film's narrative
'Homebound' explores friendship, duty, and youth challenges
Homebound follows childhood friends Chandan (Jethwa) and Shoaib (Khatter), whose shared dream of joining the police force shapes the course of their lives. Kapoor brings emotional depth to a story that delves into friendship, duty, and the struggles faced by today's youth. Alongside Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra take on the producer's role with Martin Scorsese as an executive producer.
Twitter Post
'A long road home...'
A long road home. A friend that
— Netflix India (@NetflixIndia) November 20, 2025feels like home. the 98th Academy Awards for Best International Feature Film. Homebound, is out 21 November on Netflix.#HomeboundOnNetflixpic.twitter.com/GNZjsQzSrv
India’s official entry for
Director's statement
'Homebound' marks a new milestone in Ghaywan's career
Ghaywan said the film's digital release is a new milestone after its acclaimed festival run. He said in a statement, "Inspired by a true story of friendship, Homebound explores connection and compassion as quiet resistance." "After screening at some of the world's most prestigious festivals, it has now found a home on Netflix, reaching audiences in 190 countries," he added.
Festival success
'Homebound' received international acclaim at film festivals
Homebound gained significant international attention through its festival run. It premiered in the Un Certain Regard section at Cannes and later screened at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where it went on to win Second Runner-Up for the International Audience Choice Award. The film's journey from a rooted Indian story to a global narrative is a testament to its universal appeal.