Homebound Review: Neeraj Ghaywan’s Stark Portrayal of Caste, Faith, and Friendship in Contemporary India

Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound is not merely a film to watch—it is an immersive, unforgettable experience that forces viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about caste, religion, and social inequities in India.

Inspired by Basharat Peer’s opinion piece “Taking Amrit Home” (later retitled A Friendship, a Pandemic and a Death Beside the Highway), the film fictionalizes the 2020 migrant exodus, highlighting the struggles of India’s most marginalized as they journey home during the lockdown.

The story follows Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan (Vishal Jethwa), whose lives are shaped by systemic discrimination. Chandan’s caste identity and Shoaib’s religious background weigh heavily on their aspirations, dreams, and day-to-day experiences. Jethwa delivers a powerhouse performance, capturing Chandan’s quiet rage and resilience, while Khatter brings depth and authenticity to Shoaib’s inner conflict. Their friendship, portrayed with warmth and realism, becomes the emotional backbone of the film.

The screenplay, co-written by Sumit Roy and Varun Grover, avoids melodrama, presenting oppression through caste hierarchies, religious prejudice, and bureaucratic apathy rather than simplistic villains. Visual storytelling by Pratik Shah enhances the film’s impact, with haunting images of deserted highways, migrant silhouettes, and intimate village moments lingering in memory.

While the film occasionally falters in pacing and leaves some arcs incomplete, Janhvi Kapoor’s Sudha, though brief, delivers a sharp performance that complements the leading duo.

Homebound has already resonated internationally, earning a nine-minute standing ovation at Cannes and acclaim at Toronto. As India’s official entry for the Oscars 2026, the film’s real test will be its impact at home—sparking conversation, empathy, and awareness.

By its conclusion, Homebound leaves audiences with a profound sense of responsibility. It does more than tell a story—it makes you witness the realities often ignored, ensuring the experience stays long after the credits roll.

Rating: 4/5 stars
Release Date: September 26, 2025 (Worldwide)