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As the film reaches the Indian audience in theatres this week, director Neeraj Ghaywan made a special request to the audience not to spoil the film for others.
Homebound was released on September 26. (Photo Source: Instagram)
Homebound, the Neeraj Ghaywan directorial featuring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor in the lead roles, has finally hit the theatres. Backed by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, the film explores the theme of caste, communal identity, inequality, displacement and mortality, particularly through the lens of the COVID-19 pandemic. Not just this, it has been shortlisted for India’s official entry for the 2026 Academy Awards.
As the film reaches the Indian audience in theatres this week, director Neeraj Ghaywan made a special request to the audience not to spoil the film for others.
Neeraj Ghaywan’s Special Request To Viewers
Taking to Instagram, the director shared a note, asking the viewers not to give spoilers regarding the film’s climax and share screengrabs of the film on social media.
He wrote, “Deeply grateful for all the love and enthusiasm pouring in for Homebound. Just a gentle request – please avoid sharing spoilers about the climax or posting screengrabs from the film in your posts and stories. It can take away from the experience for those who haven’t seen it yet. Thank you for understanding and for keeping the journey special for everyone.”
Homebound Storyline
The film follows the story of Chandan and Shoaib, two close childhood friends from a small North Indian village who are from marginalized backgrounds and dream of joining the police force to gain respect and dignity. Their ambitious journey, marked by caste and religious biases, takes a turn during the first COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, forcing them to undertake a perilous trek back to their village when they can no longer survive in the city.
Notably, it is inspired by a real-life event documented in a New York Times article, and explores themes of friendship, resilience, and the plight of migrant workers during the pandemic.
Homebound Box Office Collection
India’s official entry to the Oscars 2026 took a slow start at the box office, collecting only Rs 29 Lakh on Day 1, as per sacnilk.com.
Neeraj Ghaywan’s Work Front
Apart from Homebound, the filmmaker has also directed Vicky Kaushal, Richa Chadha and Shweta Tripathi’s Masaan.
His filmography also includes projects like Saif Ali Khan’s Sacred Games Season 2 and Shobhita Dhulipala’s Made In Heaven Season 2.
September 27, 2025, 11:57 IST
