‘Homebound’, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan is India’s official entry for the Oscars 2026 in the category of Best International Feature Film. The film, which stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor, tells a moving story inspired by two real-life boys, Amrit and Saiyub, who travelled during the lockdown to reach their home.But soon after the big Oscar news, a report suggested that Amrit’s father was given only Rs 10,000 by the makers and that they never stayed in touch afterwards. The director has now broken his silence, saying the truth is quite different.
Neeraj Ghaywan clarifies why Rs 10,000 was given
Ghaywan shared his side of the story on social media. He confirmed that he had indeed given Rs 10,000 to Amrit’s father, but stressed that it was not the whole payment.In his words, “Some of you have expressed concerns about reports claiming that the family whose life inspired Homebound was compensated with a mere Rs 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.”
Neeraj Ghaywan says full compensation was much more
Neeraj went on to clarify that this amount was never the full compensation. He explained that both he and the producers took the family’s contribution very seriously.Ghaywan said, “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.”The director further revealed that the families themselves had expressed their happiness to him. He added, “We have honoured 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.”
About ‘Homebound’
‘Homebound’ tells the story of two childhood friends from a small village in North India who dream of becoming police officers to gain respect and dignity. As they move closer to their goal, life throws challenges that test both their friendship and choices. It received a nine-minute standing ovation at this year’s Cannes International Film Festival. The film released in India on September 26, 2025.
