Neeraj Ghaywan’s much-anticipated film Homebound, starring Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa, has been officially selected for the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2025. The film will be featured in the Gala Presentations section, marking another major international milestone for Indian cinema.
Karan Johar Announces TIFF Selection
Producer Karan Johar broke the news on social media on Wednesday, sharing his excitement:
“#Homebound has been officially selected for the Toronto International Film Festival 2025 (@tiff_net) in the Gala Presentations category. Extremely thrilled and elated to be a part of this prestigious festival — another time for us at Dharma.”
From Cannes Applause to Toronto Spotlight
Homebound made waves earlier this year with its world premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, where it received a 9-minute standing ovation. Visuals of an emotional Neeraj Ghaywan wiping tears went viral, cementing the film’s impact.
The film tells the story of two childhood friends from a small North Indian village, united in their pursuit of a police job that represents dignity and upward mobility. But as reality closes in, their friendship and personal dreams are tested by mounting desperation.
Director Neeraj Ghaywan described it as “a deeply personal story about friendship, dignity, and survival.”
Backed by Martin Scorsese
Adding further prestige to the project, legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese is attached to the film as executive producer.
“I loved Neeraj’s Masaan in 2015, and Homebound moved me deeply… It’s a beautifully crafted film and a significant contribution to Indian cinema,” Scorsese said in a statement.
Homebound has yet to announce an Indian theatrical release date, but its international acclaim has already made it one of the most anticipated Indian films of the year.
