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Neeraj Gaywan’s Homebound, starring Ishaan Khat, Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor, was cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) with 11 cuts, resulting in a version 77 seconds shorter than the one originally presented. The film, which hits theaters on September 26, has also been selected as India’s official entry to the Oscars 2026.
Ishaan talks about CBFC standards
In an interview with Zoom, Ishaan Khatter, who plays Shoaib in the film, shared his views on censorship. “I was not directly involved in the process, so I don’t want to give the wrong idea. But as an artiste, it is difficult when changes are made. You realize that the vision of your film may sometimes wander or change. Certainly, the board has its own barometer, and certification is important, but the question is, are there standards and barometers?”
Ishaan went on to point out the inconsistencies in how different films are judged, saying, “Different films are often judged with different standards. Some get rave reviews despite questionable content, while others, especially social films, are offered a particular perspective. As artists and as audiences, we appreciate an agnostic approach, where different -Differing opinions are appreciated.”
He concluded by calling for empathy and open-mindedness from both sides. He acknowledged that artists can talk about their work, but there needs to be understanding from both ends.
About Homebound
Homebound, directed by Neeraj Gaywan, grapples with themes of friendship, caste, religion, dignity and survival. The film stars Ishaan Khat, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor and is inspired by Basharat Peer’s 2020 New York Times essay, Amrit Home (also published as A Friendship, a Pandemic, and a Death Next to the Highway).
Homebound made its world premiere in the Certain Relations section of the United Nations at Cannes 2025, where it received a nine-minute standing ovation, followed by strong applause at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). It has also been selected as India’s official entry for Best International Feature at the Oscars 2026. It was released in India on 26 September.
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