The Neeraj Ghaywan directorial Homebound, which was widely seen as a strong contender in the international awards circuit, may not have progressed to the final Oscar nominations, but the film’s journey continues to strike a powerful emotional chord. Following the announcement, Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa took to Instagram to pen heartfelt notes reflecting on the film, its meaning, and the experience of being part of a story that challenged and changed them.

Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa react to Homebound losing the Oscar race in heartfelt Instagram posts

Sharing a deeply introspective message, Ishaan Khatter opened up about Homebound, that also starred Janhvi Kapoor. Along with the emotional note, the actor also shared previously unseen behind-the-scenes moments from the Homebound sets. The candid photos and videos offer a glimpse into the camaraderie, trust, and creative bond the team developed while shooting the intense drama, further underscoring how meaningful the experience was for those involved.

He wrote, “Homebound is and always was a piece of my heart. It’s a story that took us through a journey inwards after daring to look outside the bubble we identify ourselves in. As difficult a reality as it mirrors, this film has always ultimately been hopeful to me in every way I can relate to it, as a human being, as a cinema person.. and a young actor. Today as we somewhat come to an end of one part of its journey, I know I will always look back at it with love and gratitude.. And as a sort of moral compass. @neeraj.ghaywan i love you brother. There are very few people I can say this about but I know I can always trust your conscience as a yardstick. Love to all the heroes behind the camera and to all of you who owned this film and spoke of it like your own. Homebound (infinity sign) no feeling is final”.

Vishal Jethwa, meanwhile, addressed the Oscars outcome with honesty and resilience. “Yes, we couldn’t make it to the Oscars nominations, and of course, it broke the hope we carried with us. But I believe failure is not when you fail; it’s when you don’t try. And the only thing the whole Homebound team did from the very first day was to just TRY. I am proud of the fact that we could make it to the top 15 and am fully satisfied with what we were able to do, having our name associated with the prestigious name called the Oscars, It’s more than what I ever imagined, desired, or deserved. Will always be grateful to Jogi sir, Neeraj sir, and Karan sir. My love and respect to Ishaan, Janhvi, and my Homebound family”.

He concluded his note with a line taught by his mentor, reinforcing the spirit of perseverance that defined the film’s journey as he added, “लहरों से डर कर नौका पार नहीं होती, कोशिश करने वालों को हार नहीं होती (One cannot cross a river by fearing the waves; those who make the effort never truly lose)”.

While Homebound may have bowed out of the Oscars race, the passion, pride, and emotional investment expressed by its lead actors suggest that the film’s journey — and its impact — is far from over.

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