The Mumbai premiere of "Homebound" on Monday was a special occasion for Janhvi Kapoor, filled with heartfelt tributes and family moments. The film, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, has garnered significant attention as India's official entry for the Best Foreign Film category at the 2026 Oscars.
Kapoor paid a touching homage to her late mother, legendary actress Sridevi, by wearing a royal blue and black pashmina saree that once belonged to her. Sridevi had previously worn the saree, designed by Manish Malhotra, at Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma's wedding reception in 2017. This gesture was quickly noticed by fans as a sentimental nod to her mother's enduring influence. One fan commented, "She's her mom's mirror image," while another added, "Sridevi would be proud tonight". Janhvi kept her accessories minimal and styled her hair in a bun, creating a look distinct from her mother's while honoring her memory. Sridevi had expressed her excitement about the saree on Instagram, calling it her favorite.
The "Homebound" premiere also spotlighted Janhvi Kapoor's close bond with her boyfriend, Shikhar Pahariya, and his family. She was seen posing with Shikhar's parents and his grandfather, Sushil Kumar Shinde, a veteran politician and former Home Affairs Minister. Videos circulating on social media showed Janhvi warmly welcoming Shikhar's family, touching the feet of his grandmother before hugging her. This public moment highlighted her comfortable relationship with Shikhar's family.
Shikhar Pahariya comes from a well-known political family. His mother, Smruti Sanjay Pahariya, is the daughter of Sushil Kumar Shinde, and his father, Sanjay Pahariya, is a businessman. Shikhar himself is a professional polo player and entrepreneur.
The premiere was a star-studded affair, with many Bollywood celebrities in attendance, including Arjun Kapoor, Malaika Arora, Hrithik Roshan, Vicky Kaushal, Tamannaah Bhatia, Twinkle Khanna, Farah Khan, and Manish Malhotra. Karan Johar hosted the event.
"Homebound" features Janhvi Kapoor alongside Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa in a story of friendship and perseverance. The film follows two friends who navigate systemic obstacles in their pursuit of a better life. "Homebound" had its debut at Cannes earlier this year and has already generated significant Oscar buzz. The film was also screened at the Toronto International Film Festival and Melbourne International Film Festival. Results for the Academy Award nominations are expected on January 22, 2026. The film is scheduled to release in India on September 26, 2025.
Janhvi expressed her gratitude on social media, acknowledging the journey and the people involved in the film. Director Neeraj Ghaywan shared his honor that "Homebound" was chosen as India's official entry to the Oscars.
