Actor Ishaan Khatter has spoken out about the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and what he called its “inconsistent standards” after his latest film, Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, was cleared with 11 cuts. The edited version is now 77 seconds shorter than the one originally submitted.
The film, starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, was released in theatres on September 26 and has also been selected as India’s official entry to the Oscars 2026 in the Best International Feature category.
Ishaan Khatter on Censorship and Fairness
In an interview with Zoom, Ishaan shared his perspective on censorship in Indian cinema.
“I wasn’t directly involved in the process, so I don’t want to give a misinformed view,” he said. “But as an artist, it’s difficult when alterations are made. You feel the vision of the film can get altered. Certification is important, but the question remains—what are the standards and barometers?”
He further noted the inconsistency in how films are judged.
“Different films are often treated with different standards. Some receive leniency despite questionable content, while others—especially social films with a particular perspective—face more scrutiny,” Ishaan added.
“As artists and audiences, we’d appreciate an equal and open-minded approach where every story is treated fairly.”
Ishaan concluded by calling for mutual understanding between filmmakers and the board. He acknowledged that while artists can be protective of their vision, both sides should practice empathy and open dialogue.
About the Film ‘Homebound’
Homebound explores powerful themes such as friendship, caste, religion, dignity, and survival. Inspired by Basharat Peer’s 2020 New York Times essay “Taking Amrit Home” (also published as “A Friendship, a Pandemic, and a Death Beside the Highway”), the film brings human emotions to the forefront.
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Homebound made its world premiere in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival 2025, receiving a nine-minute standing ovation. The film also earned critical praise at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
