The cast and crew of Homebound had a special moment as they walked the prestigious red carpet at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in 2025 for the film's North American premiere. Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Karan Johar under Dharma Productions, this deeply moving film explores the emotional struggles of two childhood friends chasing police jobs amid India’s caste and religious tensions.
Homebound previously received a standing ovation at Cannes Film Festival earlier in 2025 for its raw and empathetic portrayal of marginalized communities, earning praise for its authentic storytelling. The film stars Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, and Vishal Jethwa, with Janhvi making a stunning fashion statement on the TIFF red carpet.
Janhvi Kapoor wore a custom-made Miu Miu gown that beautifully blended Indian saree elements with modern high fashion, featuring delicate pleats and embellishments. Her ensemble sparked a global buzz, perfectly embodying cultural fusion which resonates well with the growing appreciation for Indian aesthetics on international red carpets.
The enthusiastic crowd and lively celebrity interactions at TIFF underline the festival’s rising importance as a global platform for Indian cinema. Data from TIFF 2024 shows a 15% increase in South Asian film screenings, challenging previous perceptions of Bollywood's limited presence on the indie international stage.
The night was not just a celebration of Homebound but also a landmark moment for Indian films gaining global recognition, showcasing stories from diverse voices with universal appeal.