May 2, 2025: In a shocking and proud moment for Indian cinema, the Madhya Pradesh-shot film Homebound received a 9-minute standing ovation at the prestigious 78th Cannes Film Festival. Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, the film premiered in the elite Un Certain Regard category—marking it as the only Indian film to feature in this globally respected section.
Starring Ishan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, Homebound has not only wowed audiences and critics but also earned support from Oscar-winning filmmaker Martin Scorsese, elevating its global stature even further.
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A large portion of the film was shot in Bhopal and surrounding areas in 2024, showcasing Madhya Pradesh’s breathtaking natural, cultural, and urban landscapes. The cast and crew praised the state’s smooth filming process, crediting MP’s film-friendly policies, single-window permit system, and supportive local communities.
This marks the fifth Dharma Productions film to be shot in Madhya Pradesh, reinforcing the state’s position as a top film destination. Since launching its Film Tourism Policy, MP has seen over 350 films and web series produced, with financial support exceeding ₹24 crore already granted to 19 productions.
Officials including Tourism Minister Dharmendra Singh Lodhi and Principal Secretary Sheo Shekhar Shukla congratulated the team, reaffirming MP’s commitment to making it India’s ultimate hub for cinema. The state was earlier crowned as the “Most Film-Friendly State” in 2022.
With global recognition like this, Homebound proves that Madhya Pradesh is not just a backdrop—it’s becoming the heartbeat of world cinema.