**‘Homebound’s Real Family Was Only Paid ₹10,000? Director Neeraj Ghaywan Addresses Rumors**
*By Apoorva Rastogi | October 3, 2025, 04:50 PM*
Neeraj Ghaywan, the director of the critically acclaimed film *Homebound*, has recently addressed circulating reports claiming that the family whose story inspired the movie was compensated with a mere ₹10,000. Responding to the concerns on X (formerly Twitter), Ghaywan clarified that this amount was a personal gesture made during his initial research phase and does not represent the total compensation given to the family.
*Homebound* is India’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2026 Oscars, highlighting the significance of the story and the people behind it.
### Clarifying the ₹10,000 Controversy
In his statement, Ghaywan wrote, “Some of you have expressed concerns about reports claiming that the family whose life inspired *Homebound* was compensated with a mere ₹10,000, a shamefully low amount. I want to clarify that this sum was a small token I personally gave to Ram Charanji (Amrit’s father) many years ago during my initial research, simply as a parting gesture.”
He further emphasized, “Please do not mistake this for the full extent of the compensation provided. Neither I, nor the producers would ever reduce such a deeply personal story to such a pittance. The families’ contributions are invaluable and deeply meaningful to me. We have honored their trust and stories with sincere respect and significant support.”
Ghaywan also revealed a heartfelt reason for withholding the exact figure of the total compensation, stating, “I personally don’t want to mention the number because that would disrespect the bond I share with Amrit, Saiyub—the original heroes of *Homebound*.”
### About *Homebound*
Released on September 26, 2025, *Homebound* is inspired by journalist Basharat Peer’s 2020 New York Times essay, *Taking Amrit Home*. The film narrates the journey of two migrant friends navigating India’s COVID-19 lockdown, a story that resonated deeply across audiences.
The movie stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, and is produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions. Since its release, *Homebound* has grossed approximately ₹2.9 crore worldwide, according to Sacnilk.
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Neeraj Ghaywan’s clarification aims to honor the real-life heroes of the story while dispelling misunderstandings about the support and respect extended to the family. Fans and viewers continue to applaud the film for its heartfelt narrative and compelling performances.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/homebound-family-got-only-rs-10k-director-reacts-to-rumors/story
