India’s entry for Oscar’s nomination, Homebound, has finally been released in theatres. The film marks Neeraj Ghaywan’s return to feature films after a decade since Masaan. It stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor in key roles. The film was released on September 26, and it had a slow but steady start. As per the box office tracker Sacnilk, the film earned Rs 29 lakh in India on its first day. So far, on its second day, it has collected Rs 2 lakh, and the earnings are expected to rise a bit as the day progresses.

Meanwhile, people who have watched the film have hailed it as one of the most impactful films of this year. Netizens praised it highly and seemed impressed with the performance of the lead cast.

The film is based on journalist Bashrat Peer’s reportage, Taking Amrit Home. It follows two friends in rural India, Mohammad Shoaib (played by Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan Kumar (played by Vishal Jethwa), as they prepare for police recruitment exams. Shoaib, employed as an office boy in an MNC, experiences discrimination due to his religion, while Chandan, a Dalit, is subjected to caste-based insults. Both individuals believe that securing a government job, especially one involving a uniform, will enable them to gain the respect that society has not given them. However, Corona strikes, flipping their worlds around and exposing them to more prejudice and discrimination. Janhvi Kapoor plays the character of their friend. She is a young PhD aspirant who is also dealing with her own set of restrictions.

Filmfare’s reviewer rated the film 5 out of 5 and wrote, “The performances feel lived-in. It must be harsh for all three leads, Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, who we are sure haven’t experienced such discrimination first-hand ever in their lives, to process the script and come up with authentic performances. Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa share an easy camaraderie throughout. They play off each other, and their chemistry is the soul of the film. The angst, the anger they constantly feel, is genuine. Kudos to the actors for choosing roles far beyond their comfort zone and acing them. And kudos also to Neeraj Ghaywan for helping them achieve this feat. Janhvi doesn’t have a big role but is at her earthy best playing a girl determined to better herself. The rest of the cast too go about their roles perfectly, giving able support.”

Homebound has been chosen as India’s official entry to the Oscars 2026. If nominated, the movie will represent India in the Best International Feature category.

Also Read: Homebound Public Review: Audience Hails It As 2025’s Most Impactful Film

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