Homebound by Neeraj Ghaywan Earns Nine-Minute Ovation at Cannes 2025
| 2025-05-22
Representative Image
Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound receives a nine-minute standing ovation at Cannes 2025, marking a major moment for Indian cinema in the Un Certain Regard section.
The screening of Homebound took place at the Debussy Theatre in Cannes and was attended by director Neeraj Ghaywan alongside leading cast members Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor. Prominent Indian producer Karan Johar, as well as his colleagues Apoorva Mehta and Somen Mishra from Dharma Productions, were also present.
The film was the only Indian feature selected for the 2025 edition of the festival and was warmly received by the audience, as reflected in the extended applause at its conclusion. Video footage released by Dharma Productions showed a visibly emotional Ghaywan embracing Johar, while the cast acknowledged the crowd’s response with folded hands and smiles.
Speaking after the screening, actor Ishaan Khatter expressed gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with Ghaywan. “He is someone I’ve admired deeply,” he said. “Homebound is a heartfelt project. I hope it speaks to everyone who sees it.”
Vishal Jethwa, who stars alongside Khatter, also celebrated the occasion. “I’m proud to be here representing India. This film is a significant step forward for all of us,” he remarked.
Storyline and Production
Homebound tells the story of two childhood friends from a small village in North India who aspire to become police officers in hopes of securing a sense of dignity that has long eluded them. As they draw closer to their goal, rising personal tensions test the resilience of their bond.
The film is co-written by Neeraj Ghaywan and screenwriter Sumit Roy. It is produced by Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra, with support from co-producers Marijke de Souza and Melita Toscan Du Plantier. Notably, Academy Award-winning director Martin Scorsese serves as executive producer on the project, adding a high-profile international dimension to the production.
Red Carpet and Reception
The cast and crew also appeared at a photocall and red carpet event prior to the screening. Ishaan Khatter wore a Bordeaux velvet bandhgala by Indian designer Gaurav Gupta, while Janhvi Kapoor was dressed in a custom Banarasi rose-coloured ensemble by Tarun Tahiliani. Vishal Jethwa chose a black power suit with jewelled detailing, and Karan Johar wore an outfit designed by Manish Malhotra.
Socialite Natasha Poonawalla, the wife of co-producer Adar Poonawalla, also attended the event, wearing a Dior creation and walking alongside Johar.
Following the premiere, Homebound continued to generate attention on social media and in festival circles, with many praising its emotional depth and socio-political resonance.
Context:
Neeraj Ghaywan previously earned international recognition for his debut film Masaan, which premiered in the same Un Certain Regard section at Cannes in 2015. That film won the Prix de l’Avenir (Promising Future Prize) and the FIPRESCI Prize. His return to Cannes with Homebound reinforces his standing as one of India’s most notable contemporary filmmakers.
The Un Certain Regard section at Cannes focuses on original and artistically daring works and often serves as a platform for emerging voices in world cinema. Ghaywan’s selection and the enthusiastic reception to Homebound mark a significant moment for Indian cinema on the global stage.
The 78th Cannes Film Festival is scheduled to conclude on Saturday.
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