Cannes 2025 turned emotional for the Indian contingent as Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound, the only Indian feature in the festival this year, received an overwhelming 9-minute-long standing ovation at its world premiere in the Un Certain Regard section. The film, which premiered to a packed house, left its audience moved, and the atmosphere post-screening was electric. A video shared by Dharma Productions on X captured the heartwarming reaction from the crowd. Karan Johar, who has backed the film, was seen hugging director Neeraj Ghaywan, who broke down in his arms. The filmmaker was visibly emotional, overwhelmed by the love Homebound had received. Actors Janhvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khatter, who star in the film, also appeared teary-eyed, soaking in the moment alongside co-star Vishal Jethwa and the rest of the crew. “9 minutes of pure love & applause!🤌🏻 Team Homebound receiving all the appreciation at @Festival_Cannes!" Dharma’s caption read. 9 minutes of pure love & applause!🤌🏻Team Homebound receiving all the appreciation at@Festival_Cannes!pic.twitter.com/QFlnw13810— Dharma Productions (@DharmaMovies)May 21, 2025 Homebound follows the story of two childhood friends from a small village in North India who dream of becoming police officers. As they get closer to securing the job that could change their lives, their bond begins to unravel under the weight of desperation. The film stars Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa in lead roles. The screenplay is penned by Neeraj Ghaywan and Sumit Roy. The film is produced by Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra, with Marijke de Souza and Melita Toscan Du Plantier as co-producers. The project also boasts the involvement of legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese, who serves as executive producer. This isn’t Neeraj’s first moment of glory at Cannes. His acclaimed debut film Masaan, which featured Vicky Kaushal and Richa Chadha, also premiered at the prestigious festival and went on to win both the Un Certain Regard Special Prize and the FIPRESCI Prize.