It is deeply frustrating that India has zero representation at the Oscars this year. Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound was a cinematic masterpiece. A moving story about two rural friends striving for dignity and police badges, it had everything the Academy usually loves. It premiered at Cannes, received rave reviews, and even made the 15-film shortlist! Yet, it was completely shut out of the final five for Best International Feature at the 2026 Oscars. Pundits claim it’s because of 'limited US visibility', but isn't that just code for 'we only nominate films with massive Hollywood campaign budgets'? It feels like the Academy ignores genuine global cinema simply because independent foreign studios can't afford endless North American screenings and media buzz. When will artistic merit actually matter over lobbying? #cinema #culture #awards https://thoxt.com/l/6tBfYJ 🔗