Basti (UP), October 23, 2025 — The poignant tale of friendship, sacrifice, and resilience depicted in the film Homebound has captured international attention, yet the people of Devari village in Uttar Pradesh’s Basti district, the very heart of the story, are still waiting for a chance to watch the film that celebrates their lives.
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Homebound premiered at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year and has been selected as India’s official entry for the 2026 Academy Awards. The film draws inspiration from journalist Basharat Peer’s acclaimed New York Times article, “Taking Amrit Home” — a moving account of Amrit Kumar, a migrant laborer from Devari, who collapsed from heatstroke on a highway while returning home during the COVID-19 pandemic. His close friend Mohammad Sayyub stayed by his side throughout, exemplifying deep friendship amid adversity.
While the film has been lauded internationally and has made waves at major festivals, residents of Devari have yet to see it in theaters. The nearest cinema is about 25 kilometers away, making it difficult for many villagers to experience the story that so closely mirrors their own lives.
Mohammad Yunus, Sayyub’s father, expressed hope that the filmmakers would arrange a screening in their village and also share the benefits of the film’s success with the families involved. Local residents echoed this sentiment, proud that their village’s story has reached a global audience but hopeful that some of the film’s earnings will contribute to Amrit’s family’s welfare and the development of the community.
The filmmakers have addressed rumors regarding compensation to Amrit’s family, clarifying that an initial small token given during research was not the full extent of support. Director Ghaywan emphasized the deep respect and meaningful support extended to the families, underscoring the personal bond shared with the real-life heroes of Homebound.
Starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, Homebound tells the story of two childhood friends from a small North Indian village who pursue a police job to gain the dignity they’ve long been denied. Their journey, marked by hope and desperation, reflects universal themes of friendship, struggle, and perseverance.
This film’s rise to international acclaim shines a spotlight not just on the talents of the filmmakers and actors but also on the untold stories of India’s migrant workers and rural communities. It serves as a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s resilience in the face of hardship and the importance of sharing such stories with both global and local audiences.
As Homebound continues its journey toward the Oscars, the anticipation grows—not only for its accolades but also for the day when the people of Devari can finally gather in their own village to watch and celebrate the story that belongs to them.