Dharamshala International Film Festival opens with packed screenings of Homebound; Neeraj Ghaywan says: ‘Spirit of storytelling is alive’

Long lines of movie lovers had already formed before the opening-night screening started, eager to see Homebound's poignant tale of loss and friendship.

The 14th edition of the Dharamshala International Film Festival began on Thursday with an overwhelming response as India’s official Oscar entry Homebound opened the event to a full house.

Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, the film was screened across three venues — the Hermann Gmeiner Hall and two inflatable digital theatres by PictureTime, set up at the basketball court and football ground of the Tibetan Children’s Village in Upper Dharamshala.

A genuinely magical atmosphere was created by the screening's stunning setting against the snow-capped Dhauladhar mountains.

Long lines of movie lovers had already formed before the opening-night screening started, eager to see Homebound's poignant tale of loss and friendship. The audience's reaction to the film was amazing; they were moved by the performances and the way it was told.

Speaking about the honour of opening DIFF 2025, Neeraj Ghaywan said, “It’s truly special to see Homebound open DIFF 2025 to such an overwhelming response! I’ve had a long-standing affection for this festival since I brought my debut film Masaan here, and it’s heart-warming to see the same passion from audiences who queue up for hours purely for the love of cinema. There’s an honesty and intimacy to DIFF that’s rare—it celebrates independent voices with such sincerity. Even though I couldn’t be there in person, knowing that the film resonated with viewers in that beautiful setting means the world to me. Festivals like DIFF keep the spirit of meaningful storytelling alive, and I’m deeply grateful to be part of that journey again.”

The first day of DIFF 2025 featured a number of outstanding films in addition to Homebound, such as The Love That Remains, Brief History of a Family, Victoria, Cutting Through Rocks, By the Stream, Angammal, Bird of a Different Feather, and Loving Karma.

To introduce local children to the joys of cinema, a special community screening of Bird of a Different Feather was arranged for students from the Woodwhistler School in Naddi and the Gammru Village School.

Also read: Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound selected as India’s official entry for Oscars 2026

One of the key highlights is a conversation with filmmaker Kiran Rao, who will reflect on her creative journey, the evolution of independent film, and the importance of telling bold and meaningful stories. Another major event is a masterclass with award-winning actor Adil Hussain, who will share his insights on how actors can authentically bring characters to life across different cultures and contexts.

This year’s festival will run from October 30 to November 2, featuring a mix of screenings, masterclasses, and engaging discussions aimed at shaping the future of independent cinema.