New Delhi, Aug 25 (PTI) "Homebound" clinched the Best Picture and Best Director awards for Neeraj Ghaywan at the 2025 Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM). Ghaywan's acclaimed film, which made its debut at the Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard category, also had the honor of closing IFFM on Sunday night. Produced by Dharma Productions and featuring stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, "Homebound" is inspired by a New York Times article by Basharat Peer that depicts a touching friendship during the Covid-19 lockdown in India.
"To present 'Homebound' in Melbourne and win these two prestigious awards is incredibly special," Ghaywan expressed in a statement. "Being surrounded by such a diverse audience is truly amazing, and witnessing the support from the Australian government and ministers for this festival is unparalleled." Ghaywan, who debuted with the acclaimed "Masaan" in 2015, shared his heartfelt gratitude for the recognition.
Mitu Bhowmik Lange, the festival director, remarked, "Closing IFFM 2025 with Neeraj Ghaywan’s 'Homebound' was powerful and fitting. The film epitomizes the essence of fearless storytelling, exceptional performances, and narratives that are deeply personal yet universally relatable." Bhowmick noted the audience's standing ovation as a moment of pride for both the "Homebound" team and Indian cinema.
In other highlights, Abhishek Bachchan won Best Actor for his performance in Shoojit Sircar's "I Want to Talk," while Geeta Kailasam was honored with the Best Actress Award for the Tamil film "Angammal," which also claimed the Best Indie Film award. Aamir Khan, the festival’s chief guest, was recognized with the Excellence in Cinema award, and the Bengali film "Baksho Bondi" received the Equality in Cinema award.
Aditi Rao Hydari was celebrated for 'Diversity in Cinema,' Aravind Swami for 'Leadership in Cinema,' and comedian Vir Das received the 'Disrupter' award at IFFM. The best short film from Australia was "Drifters," and "Kalar Pancils" was awarded the best short film from India. Child actor Gugun Kipgen earned a special mention for his remarkable performance in the Manipuri film "Boong".
In the OTT category, Vikramaditya Motwane's "Black Warrant" took home the Best Series award. Jaideep Ahlawat was honored as Best Actor for the second season of "Pataal Lok," and Nimisha Sajayan won Best Actress for "Dabba Cartel".
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