Our Bureau
Mumbai
Ishaan Khatter has garnered critical acclaim for his compelling performance in Neeraj Ghaywan’s film “Homebound,” India’s official entry to the Oscars this year. The film addresses profound human themes and is inspired by a column by Basharat Peer in The New York Times, with Khatter’s character drawing inspiration from the life of Saiyub. Khatter described the film as difficult to watch but essential, calling it important not only for India but for the world at large.
For his role, Khatter underwent rigorous preparation, including dialect coaching and cultural immersion. Director Neeraj Ghaywan emphasized an immersive approach, insisting that the actors live the experiences of their characters rather than merely perform them. This led Khatter and the team to visit Barabanki villages to deeply understand the local culture, lives, and struggles of the people. During their trip, they engaged with villagers, gaining insights that shaped their portrayal with empathy and authenticity.
Khatter highlighted the intent behind the film as humanizing characters to foster empathy and shared humanity. He emphasized showing the ambitions and spirit of the characters before their eventual breaking points, making “Homebound” ultimately a hopeful narrative despite its hard-hitting subject matter. Although Khatter has yet to meet the real Saiyub, meeting him remains a hope for the future.
The film’s narrative sheds light on pressing social realities and has received audience acclaim, reflecting the need for cinema that supports meaningful and empathetic storytelling. Khatter’s performance and the film’s deep, immersive storytelling underscore the importance of such cinematic works that catalyze awareness and change, making “Homebound” a significant film for global audiences.
