Neeraj Ghaywan, whose film Homebound has been selected as India’s official Oscar entry, recently responded to reports claiming that the family who inspired the story was paid only Rs 10,000. 

The filmmaker, known for his sensitive storytelling, took to X to clarify the situation and called the reports “misleading.”

The director explained that the mentioned amount was never meant as full compensation but rather a small token he personally gave to Amrit’s father, Ram Charan, years ago during his research. 

“Some of you have expressed concerns about reports claiming that the family whose life inspired 'Homebound' was compensated with a mere Rs 10,000, a shamefully low amount. I want to clarify that this sum was a small token I personally gave to Ram Charan ji (Amrit’s father)..simply as a parting gesture (sic),” his post read.

The 45-year-old screenwriter also shared that Amrit and Saiyub, whose real-life story inspired in   Homebound, were happy with how their experiences were represented in the film. 

He mentioned that out of respect for their privacy, he chose not to reveal the actual compensation. 

“Please do not mistake this for the full extent of the compensation provided.… I personally don’t want to mention the number because that would disrespect the bond I share with Amrit and Saiyub—the original heroes of 'Homebound' (sic),” the note further stated.

The movie is basically inspired by journalist Basharat Peer’s article “Taking Amrit Home” (also known as “A Friendship, a Pandemic and a Death Beside the Highway”), it tells the moving tale of a Dalit and a Muslim childhood friendship tested by hardship and class barriers. 

The story reflects their shared dream of joining the police force to earn the dignity often denied to them.

The movie is produced by Karan Johar, stars  Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jehtwa, Janhvi Kapoor, Shalini Vatsa and Reem Shaikh in notable roles.