Neeraj Ghaywan Denies Claims of ‘Token’ Compensation to Real-Life Family Behind Homebound

Mumbai: Reports recently surfaced raising concerns about the compensation provided to the family whose story inspired the acclaimed film Homebound, India’s official Oscar entry. According to an earlier interview with The Indian Express, Ram Charan, father of Amrit (one of the two boys whose journey during India’s COVID-19 lockdown inspired the film), mentioned that the filmmakers had given them only ₹10,000 and subsequently lost contact. The news sparked criticism, with many calling the sum “shamefully low” for such a deeply personal story.

In response to the controversy, director Neeraj Ghaywan issued a detailed statement. He clarified that the ₹10,000 reported in the media was a small, personal token he gave to Ram Charan as a gesture years ago, during his initial research, and was not representative of the full compensation or support rendered by him or the producers. “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 Charan ji (Amrit’s father) many years ago during my initial research, simply as a parting gesture,” Mr. Ghaywan said.

He emphasized that the figure being circulated has been taken out of context and does not reflect the total support given: “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 honoured their trust and stories with sincere respect and significant support.” Mr. Ghaywan added that both Amrit and Saiyub, whose lives shaped the narrative of Homebound, have expressed happiness with how their story was handled. He chose not to reveal the full compensation amount, citing a desire to respect his personal bond with the family: “I personally don’t want to mention the number because that would disrespect the bond I share with Amrit and Saiyub, the original heroes of Homebound,” Ghaywan wrote.

Homebound, inspired by a 2020 New York Times essay by Basharat Peer, has been praised for its portrayal of resilience and friendship. The film had its worldwide premiere at Cannes and TIFF and was released in theatres on September 26, 2025