Heading Level	Title
H1	‘Homebound’ Receives 9-Minute Standing Ovation at Cannes 2025: Neeraj Ghaywan's Emotional Return
H2	Introduction
H2	Neeraj Ghaywan’s Triumphant Return After a Decade
H3	From ‘Masaan’ to ‘Homebound’
H3	Cannes 2025: A Special Premiere
H2	The Plot of ‘Homebound’
H3	A Tale of Friendship and Dignity
H3	Themes of Survival and Hope
H2	Star-Studded Cast and Powerful Performances
H3	Ishaan Khatter and Janhvi Kapoor Shine
H3	Vishal Jethwa’s Standout Role
H2	Emotional Moments at the Premiere
H3	Neeraj Ghaywan Breaks Down in Tears
H3	Applause and Unity on Display
H2	Martin Scorsese Backs ‘Homebound’
H3	Why Scorsese Joined the Team
H3	Global Recognition for Indian Cinema
H2	The Power of Storytelling: Ghaywan’s Vision
H3	Speaking for the Unseen
H3	Social Commentary Through Cinema
H2	Audience and Critical Reception
H3	Standing Ovation at Cannes
H3	Media Reactions and Social Buzz
H2	Conclusion
H2	FAQs

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‘Homebound’ Receives 9-Minute Standing Ovation at Cannes 2025: Neeraj Ghaywan's Emotional Return

Introduction

Indian cinema had another proud moment on the global stage as Neeraj Ghaywan’s latest film ‘Homebound’ premiered at the 78th Cannes Film Festival and received an overwhelming 9-minute standing ovation. The deeply emotional moment was not just a celebration of a film, but also a tribute to stories that touch the soul.

Neeraj Ghaywan’s Triumphant Return After a Decade

From ‘Masaan’ to ‘Homebound’

It’s been ten years since Neeraj Ghaywan stunned the world with Masaan, a film that put him on the international map. Fast forward to 2025, and he’s back — stronger, bolder, and even more honest with Homebound.

Cannes 2025: A Special Premiere

The premiere of Homebound at the Un Certain Regard section of Cannes was nothing short of magical. With an emotional standing ovation lasting nearly 9 minutes, the audience’s reaction was a loud testament to the film’s power.

The Plot of ‘Homebound’

A Tale of Friendship and Dignity

Homebound is the story of two childhood friends from a modest North Indian village, both chasing their dream of landing a police job — a role that symbolizes dignity and respect in their eyes.

Themes of Survival and Hope

As they inch closer to their goal, they find their bond tested by the harsh realities of survival and systemic pressure. The film quietly and powerfully raises questions about dignity, dreams, and desperation in rural India.

Star-Studded Cast and Powerful Performances

Ishaan Khatter and Janhvi Kapoor Shine

Leading the narrative are Ishaan Khatter and Janhvi Kapoor, both delivering mature, emotionally charged performances that show their growth as actors.

Vishal Jethwa’s Standout Role

Vishal Jethwa once again proves his versatility with a performance that is raw, real, and heart-wrenching. His portrayal adds depth and gravity to the already intense storyline.

Emotional Moments at the Premiere

Neeraj Ghaywan Breaks Down in Tears

It wasn’t just the audience who was moved — Neeraj Ghaywan himself became emotional, teary-eyed as he received thunderous applause, hugging Karan Johar, one of the film’s producers.

Applause and Unity on Display

The unity and shared emotion in the theatre were palpable — a rare cinematic moment where art transcended boundaries, cultures, and language.

Martin Scorsese Backs ‘Homebound’

Why Scorsese Joined the Team

Legendary director Martin Scorsese joined the project as an executive producer, a major milestone for Indian cinema. He shared that he loved Masaan and felt compelled to support Homebound for its honesty and cinematic value.

“Neeraj has made a beautifully crafted film that's a significant contribution to Indian Cinema,” said Scorsese.

Global Recognition for Indian Cinema

Scorsese’s backing shows how Indian stories are now being taken seriously on the world stage. Homebound is not just a movie — it’s a movement.

The Power of Storytelling: Ghaywan’s Vision

Speaking for the Unseen

Ghaywan describes Homebound as a deeply personal story. “It’s about people who are often unseen, and the quiet strength they carry in a world that rarely pauses for them,” he said in a heartfelt note.

Social Commentary Through Cinema

True to his style, Ghaywan uses minimalism, silence, and realism to hold up a mirror to society — showing the struggles of the marginalised, without ever sensationalising them.

Audience and Critical Reception

Standing Ovation at Cannes

A 9-minute-long standing ovation is not common at Cannes. It puts Homebound in the league of truly exceptional cinema that connects deeply with its audience.

Media Reactions and Social Buzz

Social media lit up with praise for the film. Hashtags like #Homebound, #NeerajGhaywan, and #Cannes2025 trended globally, with fans and critics alike calling it “India’s finest Cannes moment in recent years.”

Conclusion

Homebound is more than just a film — it’s a heartfelt ode to friendship, dreams, and the invisible battles people fight every day. With its emotional core, stellar cast, and global support, the film has already created history. Neeraj Ghaywan's return to Cannes isn't just a personal win — it’s a giant leap forward for Indian storytelling on a global scale.

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FAQs

1. Who directed the film Homebound?
Neeraj Ghaywan, known for his critically acclaimed film Masaan, directed Homebound.

2. What is the plot of Homebound?
The story revolves around two childhood friends from a rural village in North India, chasing their dream of becoming police officers, only to face unexpected emotional and societal challenges.

3. Who are the main actors in Homebound?
The film stars Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa in lead roles.

4. What was the reaction at Cannes Film Festival 2025?
Homebound received a 9-minute standing ovation at Cannes, and Neeraj Ghaywan was visibly emotional during the applause.

5. What role did Martin Scorsese play in Homebound?
Martin Scorsese joined the film as an executive producer and praised it as a significant contribution to Indian cinema.