Homebound is back in discussion online not for its Oscar selection or release, but because of a recent comment by its producer Karan Johar.
In a new interview, Karan said he was disappointed with Homebound’s poor box office performance and might never produce a film like it again.
He also spoke about selling 50% of his production company to billionaire Adar Poonawalla, a move that he says has completely changed his approach to filmmaking.
Karan explained that the decision was made to expand his company, but the new partnership brought a business-first mindset.
Under this model, artistic risks like Homebound no longer fit the studio’s commercial strategy.
While Homebound received strong critical acclaim and represented India at the Oscars, it struggled to attract audiences at home.
Karan’s comments upset many fans, who blamed poor scheduling and limited screenings for the film’s underperformance.
They noted that most show timings were either at odd hours or in expensive theatres, keeping regular audiences away.
Fans also pointed out that the commercial entertainer Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari got far better promotion and screen share, yet performed worse at the box office.
They argue that Homebound could have succeeded with better marketing and wider reach.
Online discussions now suggest that Dharma Productions may have released the film theatrically only to meet Oscar eligibility requirements.
Many believe the “low profits” explanation is just a cover for the studio’s lack of effort in promoting the film.
Meanwhile, director Neeraj Ghaywan is reportedly reaching out to theatres personally to add more screenings.
Fans continue to rally behind Homebound, determined to support the film that will represent India on the world stage — even if its own producers appear to have moved on.
