Homebound, the critically acclaimed film starring Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa, has recently been announced as India’s official entry for the 2026 Oscars. As the film gears up for its journey to the Academy Awards, it has been receiving immense praise from all corners, including from the industry’s newest rising star, Aneet Padda.
The ‘National Crush’ from the hit film Saiyaara recently watched Homebound and was so moved by the experience that she took to social media to share her emotional reaction.
Aneet Padda’s Heartfelt Praise For Team Homebound
In a detailed note on her Instagram stories, Aneet Padda described the film as a powerful and unforgettable experience. She had special words for director Neeraj Ghaywan, writing, “Only you could have held this story the way you did. With such patience, such empathy, such rare care.”
She also gave a huge shout-out to the lead actors for their brilliant work. “@vishaljethwa06, @ishaankhatter, @janhvikapor: you carried that vision with so much honesty and courage. Fearless and delicate all at once,” she wrote. Summing up her feelings, she tagged producer Karan Johar and added, “I walked out heavy-eyed, but lighter in soul. Thank you for giving us this.”

A Critically Acclaimed Film’s Oscar Journey
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Homebound is based on a powerful real-life article about friendship, loss, and survival during the pandemic. While the film had a slow start at the box office, it was hailed by critics as a masterpiece of storytelling. Reviewers praised its bold narrative and the incredible performances by Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa.
The decision by the Film Federation of India to select Homebound as the country’s official Oscar submission is a huge honour and a testament to the film’s artistic merit. As it begins its campaign for the prestigious award, the support from fellow actors and the film community is a huge morale booster for the entire team.
Who Is Aneet Padda?
For those who may not know, Aneet Padda became a household name this year after the release of her blockbuster film Saiyaara. Her performance won her millions of fans and the title of ‘National Crush’. After making her debut in Kajol’s Salaam Venky (2022), she is now set to star in a powerful courtroom drama directed by Nitya Mehra. As one of the industry’s most promising new talents, her praise for Homebound carries significant weight.
About Homebound
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Karan Johar, Homebound is a 2025 drama starring Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa. The film is based on a real-life article about friendship and survival during the pandemic. Despite a modest box office performance, the film received widespread critical acclaim and has been selected as India’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2026 Academy Awards.
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