- Saturday, April 12, 2025
By: Vibhuti Pathak
Indian cinema has just scored a major moment on the global stage. Homebound, a new film directed by acclaimed filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan and starring Janhvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khatter, has been officially selected for the 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival. The film will be screened in the prestigious ‘Un Certain Regard’ section — a category that showcases artistic and visionary cinema from across the globe.
The official announcement came on Thursday (10) as Cannes 2025 revealed its star-studded lineup, featuring auteurs like Wes Anderson and Ari Aster. But for Indian cinema enthusiasts, Homebound is already the center of attention — and not without some social media drama.
Janhvi Kapoor took to Instagram to express her excitement, stating, “A moment where Indian cinema takes over the world.” The statement, though full of pride, immediately triggered mixed reactions online. While many applauded her passion, others felt the remark was “too sweeping” and “borderline arrogant.” Still, there’s no denying the scale of this achievement.
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In her full post, Janhvi added, “We are honored to announce that Homebound makes its way to the official selection at the 78th edition of the Festival de Cannes in the ‘Un Certain Regard’ category. Our hearts are full, and we can’t wait to show you all this journey on the big screen.”
Meanwhile, co-star Ishaan Khatter described his role in the film as his “most challenging” to date. “A film that I knew was special from the moment it entered my life… pure intention, grit, compassion, and truth. One of the proudest moments of my cinematic journey. All led by my friend with a beautiful mind and deep empathy — @neerajghaywan,” he wrote on Instagram. Ishaan also shared that this film marks his return to Dharma Productions after seven years, calling it a “homecoming.”
Director Neeraj Ghaywan is no stranger to Cannes. His debut feature Masaan, starring Vicky Kaushal, won two awards in the same section back in 2015. That legacy seems to continue with Homebound, signaling his continued commitment to socially resonant, emotionally charged storytelling.
Produced by Bollywood heavyweight Karan Johar along with Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra, the film also features actor Vishal Jethwa in a significant role. Marijke de Souza and Melita Toscan Du Plantier serve as co-producers, indicating a global collaborative effort behind the project.
With the Cannes Film Festival scheduled from May 13 to May 24, all eyes are now on Homebound — not just for the artistic value it promises, but also for the attention its cast and creators are attracting. As Indian cinema continues its rise on the international stage, this film may just be a landmark moment — or as Janhvi put it, a time when “Indian cinema takes over the world.” Whether it’s pride or provocation, one thing’s clear: Homebound has everyone talking.
