In a significant development just as its Oscar campaign gains momentum, the critically acclaimed film Homebound finds itself at the centre of a legal and creative storm. The production house behind the movie, Dharma Productions, has issued a firm rebuttal against allegations of copyright infringement levelled by journalist-author Puja Changoiwala.
The Allegations and Legal Action
The controversy erupted when Puja Changoiwala, the author of a 2021 novel also titled Homebound, initiated legal proceedings. According to reports, she has sent legal notices to Dharma Productions Private Limited and Netflix Entertainment Services India LLP, which streams the film. Changoiwala plans to file a formal suit in the Bombay High Court.
Her core allegation is that the filmmakers have not only used the title of her book but have also reproduced substantial creative elements from her work. She claims the second half of the Neeraj Ghaywan-directed film copies scenes, dialogue, narrative structure, and the sequence of events from her novel. Both works use the backdrop of the COVID-19 outbreak and the subsequent migrant worker exodus.
Dharma's Strong Rebuttal
Responding to these claims, a spokesperson for Dharma Productions provided a detailed statement on Wednesday, December 24, 2025. The production house categorically denied all accusations, labelling them as baseless and unfounded.
The official clarification states that Homebound is an officially licensed adaptation inspired by a New York Times article by Basharat Peer. Dharma asserts that all necessary rights were lawfully acquired, and due credit has been given. The spokesperson confirmed that the legal notice from Changoiwala was received in October 2025, and a response was sent promptly. However, they added that no further official communication about a lawsuit has been received since.
Oscar Dreams Amidst Controversy
This legal tussle surfaces at a pivotal moment for the film. Just days before the allegations became public, Homebound was shortlisted in the Best International Feature Film category for the 98th Academy Awards. The film, which had a worldwide release months earlier, stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, with its screenplay penned by director Neeraj Ghaywan himself.
The timing raises questions about the potential impact of the lawsuit on the film's Oscar journey. While Dharma Productions prepares its legal defence, the film industry and audiences are watching closely to see how this dispute between a celebrated author and a major production house unfolds.
The outcome of this case could set a notable precedent for intellectual property rights in the Indian film industry, especially for projects based on real-life events where multiple creative interpretations can exist.
