Filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan`s recent release Homebound is currently running in theatres. The film starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor did rounds at international film festivals before getting a release in India. Amid the criticial acclaim being received by the film, Ghaywan took to social media to settle rumours around the team compensation for the family, who inspired the film, with only Rs 10,000. The director clarified how the number surfaced and how it has been mistaken.
Neeraj Ghaywan sets record straight on monetary compensation
On Friday, Ghaywan took to his X handle (formerly Twitter), and shared a long post, in which he clarified that he did initially give Rs 10000 to the family, but it was only a token of gratitude from his side when the film was under research.
He shared that he and the makers of the film have honoured the family with sincere respect and significant support.
He wrote, “Some of you have expressed concerns about reports claiming that the family whose life inspired Homebound was compensated with a mere INR 10,000, a shamefully low amount. I want to clarify that this sum was a small token I personally gave to Ram Charan ji (Amrit’s father) many years ago during my initial research, simply as a parting gesture. Please do not mistake this for the full extent of the compensation provided. Neither I, not the producers would ever reduce such a deeply personal story to such a pittance. The families’ contributions are invaluable and deeply meaningful to me”.
He further mentioned, “We have honored their trust and stories with sincere respect and significant support. They have expressed their happiness with me about the same and I personally don’t want to mention the number because that would disrespect the bond I share with Amrit and Saiyub, the original heroes of ‘Homebound’”.
Some of you have expressed concerns about reports claiming that the family whose life inspired Homebound was compensated with a mere ₹10,000—a shamefully low amount. I want to clarify that this sum was a small token I personally gave to Ram Charan ji (Amrit’s father) many years…
— Neeraj Ghaywan (@ghaywan) October 3, 2025
Homebound is India`s official entry for Oscars
The film backed by Karan Johar`s Dharma Productions made a powerful impact at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), earning a standing ovation during its North American premiere. Now, the film has been selected as India`s official entry for Oscars 2026 in for Best International Feature category. The film also has the legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese as its executive producer.
Homebound is a poignant Indian drama, that explores the deep bond between two childhood friends, Shoaib, a Muslim, and Chandan, a Dalit, as they navigate the injustices of the system and societal prejudices in their pursuit of dignity and meaningful work.
It is set against the backdrop of India`s deeply entrenched social divisions, the film delves into themes of identity, caste, and faith through a profound male friendship.
