Cannes 2025: Janhvi Kapoor’s Homebound gets 9-minute ovation, family in tears as crowd chants ‘bravo’

Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound made a notable mark at the Cannes Film Festival 2025 as it premiered in the Un Certain Regard section. The film, featuring Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, and Vishal Jethwa, received a 9-minute standing ovation, making it a proud moment for Indian cinema. Janhvi was joined by her family and close friends at the screening, where emotions ran high and applause filled the packed hall.

A warm reception and emotional moments

At its world premiere on Wednesday, Homebound was screened to a full house, receiving a 9-minute standing ovation. As the applause continued, Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and director Neeraj Ghaywan shared a heartfelt group hug. Producer Karan Johar, visibly emotional, stood behind the team and wiped away tears. The audience’s appreciation was clear, with claps and cheers of “Bravo” echoing through the hall.

Family and friends show support

Janhvi’s father Boney Kapoor, sister Khushi Kapoor, and her rumoured boyfriend Shikhar Pahariya were all present in the audience. Boney Kapoor had tears in his eyes, while Khushi and Shikhar clapped enthusiastically from their seats. Boney was also seen interacting warmly with Karan Johar and blessing Ishaan Khatter. The strong presence of Janhvi’s support system highlighted the personal importance of this moment for her.

Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound premiered at Cannes 2025 | Credit: X

Story and credits behind the film

Homebound is the only Indian feature film to be showcased at Cannes 2025. The story follows two childhood friends from a North Indian village who pursue a police job that promises dignity. But as they get closer to their goal, desperation tests their friendship. The film is written by Neeraj Ghaywan and Sumit Roy. Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra have produced it, with Marijke de Souza and Melita Toscan Du Plantier as co-producers. Martin Scorsese, the Oscar-winning director, is attached as the executive producer.

Janhvi reflects on the moment

When Homebound was announced as an official selection at Cannes, Janhvi Kapoor expressed her excitement in a post, calling it “a moment where Indian cinema takes over the world.” She added that the team’s hearts were full. Shikhar Pahariya had also shown support, sharing her post with the caption, “She put her soul on screen, and now it’s headed to Cannes. Proud is an understatement.”

Cannes 2025 brought emotional highs and critical recognition for Homebound, a film that carried Indian cinema to global applause.

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