Acclaimed filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan has broken his silence amid growing controversy surrounding his Oscar-selected drama Homebound. Following a media report that claimed the real-life family whose story inspired the film was paid only 10,000, Ghaywan took to social media with a candid and emotional statement, firmly rejecting the narrative of exploitation.
“Some of you have expressed concerns,” Ghaywan begins, referencing the viral claim involving Amrit’s father, Ram Charan ji. He clarifies that the 10,000 was a personal token—a gesture of gratitude offered during early research years ago. “Please do not mistake this for the full extent of the compensation provided,” he added. “The families’ contributions are invaluable… we have honored their trust and stories with sincere respect and significant support.”
Produced by Dharma Productions and starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, Homebound has been widely praised for its poignant narrative, drawn from Basharat Peer's 2020 New York Times article chronicling the harrowing yet hopeful journey of two friends during the COVID lockdown. The film explores caste, class, and communal divides through the lens of two young men trying to pass the national police exam—a story rooted in real-life struggle and resilience.
But the recent backlash—sparked by a quote from Amrit’s father recalling the 10,000—has turned a spotlight on the ethics of adapting real lives for awards-season drama. While producer Karan Johar has yet to comment, Ghaywan’s statement is both a defense and a refusal to commodify what he views as a deeply personal bond. “Mentioning the amount would disrespect the bond I share with Amrit and Saiyub—the original heroes of Homebound,” he said.
As Homebound rides high on critical acclaim and Oscar buzz, Ghaywan’s response is a reminder that behind every adapted story are real people, real relationships—and real responsibilities. Whether the industry agrees or not, Ghaywan is choosing to honor that with more than just receipts.
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