Homebound: The Indian film that got a nine-minute ovation at Cannes

Aseem Chhabra, a film writer, recently reported on the remarkable success of the Indian film Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan. This film made a significant impact at the Cannes Film Festival, receiving a nine-minute standing ovation from the audience. Homebound tells a poignant story about the friendship between two men from different backgrounds, showcasing their struggles and the bond they share. One of the film's striking images features a man carrying another on his shoulders, symbolizing their deep connection. Neeraj Ghaywan first gained recognition at Cannes in 2010 with his debut film, Masaan, which explored themes of love, loss, and the harsh realities of the caste system in India. The film's main character, played by Vicky Kaushal, faced the difficult task of cremating bodies along the Ganges River, highlighting the challenges faced by those in lower castes. Masaan was featured in the 'Un Certain Regard' section of the festival, which celebrates films with unique storytelling and styles. It won several awards, including the Avenir Prize, which honors promising future filmmakers. Following the success of Masaan, Ghaywan sought to tell more stories about marginalized communities in India. Five years ago, during the pandemic, a friend named Somen Mishra suggested an article titled Taking Amrit Home, written by journalist Basharat Peer. This article inspired Ghaywan as it chronicled the journeys of countless Indians who walked long distances to return home during the strict lockdown. The article also focused on the childhood friendship between two men, one Muslim and the other Dalit, which resonated with Ghaywan on a personal level. Homebound, inspired by Peer's article, premiered at Cannes in the 'Un Certain Regard' section and received an enthusiastic nine-minute standing ovation. Many audience members were visibly moved, with tears in their eyes, reflecting the film's emotional depth. Ghaywan shared a heartfelt hug with Karan Johar, the lead producer, and later celebrated with the young actors, Ishan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor. This event marked a significant moment as it was the largest South Asian gathering at Cannes 2025, attracting numerous prominent filmmakers. Mira Nair, a celebrated Indian director, was seen reaching out to Johar, while Pakistani filmmaker Siam Sadiq captured the joyful atmosphere in the theater and shared it on social media. Interestingly, the film received unexpected support from Martin Scorsese, a renowned filmmaker known for his blockbuster movies. Scorsese became the executive producer after being introduced to the film by French producer Mélita Toscan du Plantier. This collaboration is noteworthy as it marks the first time Scorsese has supported a contemporary Indian film, having previously focused on classic Indian cinema. Scorsese expressed his admiration for Ghaywan's work, stating that he loved the story and culture presented in Homebound. He praised Ghaywan for creating a beautifully crafted film that makes a significant contribution to Indian cinema. The film follows the journey of two men, Mohammed Shoaib Ali and Chandan Kumar, portrayed by Ishan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa. They share a history of discrimination but also have dreams of overcoming the barriers they face, aspiring to join the police force in their state. Ghaywan, who comes from a Dalit family, has been deeply affected by the realities of caste discrimination throughout his life. He studied business administration and worked in a corporate job but always felt the weight of his background. Ghaywan believes that he is the only person from his community to be involved in Hindi cinema, both in front of and behind the camera. Critics have praised Homebound for its powerful blend of fiction and reality, creating a significant public document. Ghaywan points out that most of India lives in villages, yet Hindi films rarely depict village life. He feels that marginalized communities are often reduced to mere statistics, and he wants to tell their stories in a more personal way. Ghaywan's script focuses on the individual experiences of the characters, allowing viewers to connect with their lives. He draws from his own childhood experiences, having had a close Muslim friend, which helps him relate to the characters' journeys. Homebound beautifully captures the warmth of rural India, showcasing the simple joys and daily struggles of its protagonists. The film not only moves audiences to tears but also encourages meaningful conversations about the lives of those who often remain in the shadows.