Vishal Jethwa opens up after Homebound misses Oscar 2026 nominations: 'To see it represent India on a global platform already feels extraordinary...'

Vishal Jethwa reacts to Homebound Oscar snub

• Homebound makes final 15 for Oscars from 86 international entries
• Vishal Jethwa expresses gratitude for the film's journey and recognition
• Homebound stars Ishaan Khatter and Janhvi Kapoor, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan

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Although Homebound did not make it to the final Oscar nominations, Vishal Jethwa has chosen to focus on gratitude rather than disappointment, describing the film’s journey as something he will always hold close.

For the actor, the experience was about far more than awards — it was about belief, perseverance and seeing a dream travel much further than he ever imagined.

Speaking to IANS, Vishal Jethwa reflected on what it meant for Homebound to be shortlisted among the final 15 films from a total of 86 international entries.

He admitted that the recognition felt especially emotional given his own beginnings. “While we didn't make it to the final nominations, being shortlisted among the final 15 films from 86 entries itself has been deeply humbling for me. I come from a very modest, local space, where dreams often feel distant, so to see Homebound travel this far and represent India on a global platform already feels extraordinary.”

Rather than viewing the outcome as a setback, Vishal Jethwa said the journey strengthened his faith in sincere storytelling and cinema that comes from an honest place.

Each stage of the process, he explained, reminded him how powerful belief and commitment can be when paired with the right people and the right story.

He shared, “Every step of this process has been a reminder of how far belief, perseverance, and sincerity can take you. I'm deeply grateful to Neeraj Ghaywan for his vision, to Karan Johar for believing in this film, and to my co-actors Ishaan and Janhvi for being such inspiring collaborators.”

Also Read: When Homebound actor Vishal Jethwa revealed he is the son of a ‘kamwali bai’ , a look at his success journey

The actor added that he carries this chapter with him with a sense of pride and gratitude, and looks ahead to what the future may bring.

Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan, Homebound also features Ishaan Khatter and Janhvi Kapoor in key roles.

The film tells the story of two childhood friends, portrayed by Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, as they chase stability and dignity while preparing for the national police examination.