As Homebound eyes Oscars 2026, Vishal Jethwa reflects on being outsider on set: 'It takes time, and that’s okay'

Neeraj Ghaywan’s directorial Homebound has been shortlisted in the best international feature category at the upcoming Oscars 2026. Featuring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor in the lead, the movie earned praise worldwide. Amid this recognition, Homebound actor Vishal opened up about being an outsider on the set and also shared what the Oscar shortlist means to him. 

Vishal Jethwa on being outsider on set

Speaking to India Today, Vishal Jethwa opened up about working with Ishaan Khatter and Janhvi Kapoor and highlighted the difference in their backgrounds while emphasising mutual respect. He said, "They’ve grown up seeing a very different life compared to mine. I come from a lower-middle-class family, so my experiences are very different. But as actors, there was no difference. We respected each other’s viewpoints and created a safe space to share without judgment."

Addressing the realities of being an outsider in the Bollywood industry, Vishal said that actors from film families never made him feel small and added that the difference comes from the people around them, how seriously people listen to you, how much importance your opinion gets.

He recalled advice from senior actor Jaya Bhattacharya: "You have to create your own space in this industry," and shared, "It takes time, and that’s okay. I can see the change now (post-Homebound). On sets, at events. The respect is different.”

Vishal Jethwa on Homebound getting shortlisted at Oscars 2026

Expressing his happiness over Homebound being shortlisted at the Oscars 2026, Vishal said, “From Cannes to now, the Oscar shortlist - this is more than I ever imagined. If we reach the nominations and make India proud, it would be incredible.”

He did not want Homebound to be remembered only for its awards but wanted it to create some positive change, however small.

About Homebound

Homebound (2025) is about two marginalised North Indian friends, Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan (Vishal Jethwa), who dream of joining the police for respect but face caste and religious hurdles. It ends with a tragic, desperate journey back home, inspired by real events during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Also Read: Homebound Review: Through Ishaan, Janhvi and Vishal, Ghaywan finds melancholy in the margins we ignore

Homebound FAQs:

Q: Where to watch Homebound online?

A: Homebound is currently available to stream on Netflix.

Q. Is Homebound selected for the Oscar Awards 2026?

A. Yes, Homebound has been shortlisted for the Oscar Awards 2026 and is one of the top 15 international titles in the 'Best International Feature Film category.' The final voting round will unveil the fate of Homebound.

Q: Who are the main actors in the film Homebound?

A: The main actors in the film Homebound are Ishaan Khatter as Mohammed Shoaib Ali, Vishal Jethwa as Chandan Kumar, and Janhvi Kapoor as Sudha Bharti.