Neeraj Ghaywan clarified that Karan Johar’s remarks about Homebound were taken out of context and expressed disappointment over the criticism he received for his comments. The filmmaker publicly supported Karan Johar after the latter faced backlash for his recent statements. Earlier this month, Karan mentioned that he now evaluates profitability with every project and questioned whether a film like Homebound could be made again. His comments sparked criticism online, with many accusing him of prioritising commercial interests over artistic integrity.
In an interview with Lallantop Cinema, Neeraj Ghaywan defended Karan, explaining the true intent behind his words. He conveyed his disappointment over the reactions to Karan’s remarks. Ghaywan said, “He has such a big production banner and is such a prominent producer that he doesn’t need to support a film like this for commercial reasons. He was fully aware that the film wouldn’t be a blockbuster or generate profits. But the emotional depth of the story moved him, and that’s why he chose to back it. He has always said he just wanted to be part of it in some way. Seeing people question his honesty and cast doubt on his intentions really hurts.”
He added, “Misquoting or misrepresenting what he said can completely demoralise him. It undermines his contribution to the film. I’m very disturbed by all this. It’s a significant moment — a major banner like his deciding to produce such a sensitive film with an independent filmmaker. We should be encouraging more such collaborations. Instead, if we react negatively, it will discourage future projects like this. I urge everyone to understand that his comments have been taken out of context.”
Neeraj further clarified that Karan’s remarks were purely from a business standpoint and that he never said he wouldn’t produce a film like Homebound again. He also credited Karan for giving him complete creative freedom during the film’s making.
What Karan Johar Said?
In a recent interview with Komal Nahta on his YouTube channel Game Changers, Karan Johar discussed his partnership with Adar Poonawalla. He said, “Now, you have to take every decision with profitability. It is very important to be profitable. We are a commercial enterprise. I made Homebound, which was critically acclaimed worldwide, but I can’t say if I’ll take such decisions in the future or not. I might feel upset, but I chose this project for a reason — growth. Growth comes from profit, and profit comes from profitability. I will always be artistic, but it’s essential to be commercial as well.”
‘Upset’ Karan Johar Says He Is Now Accountable For Profits, Might Not Make Films Like ‘Homebound’ Again
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His comments drew criticism on social media. In response, on October 10, Karan shared an Instagram note urging people not to “misconstrue or misquote” his words. He wrote, “It was an academic conversation about the business of our films… I am and will always be exceptionally proud of Homebound. It will always hold a special place in our filmography as one of our finest and most sensitively directed works.”
About Homebound
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, Homebound premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2025, where it received a nine-minute standing ovation. The film stars Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa in leading roles and was released in theatres on September 26, 2025. Despite positive critical reviews, the film underperformed at the box office, earning only Rs 2.65 crore worldwide.
Set in a small village in North India, Homebound tells the story of childhood friends aspiring to clear the police exam and escape poverty. The film has been selected as India’s official entry for the 2026 Oscars in the Best International Feature Film category.
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Also Read: Karan Johar Addresses Being Misquoted For Studio Seeking Only Profits At Box Office Comment; Says, “I Am And Will Always Be Proud Of Homebound”
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