When Homebound actor Vishal Jethwa revealed he is the son of a ‘kamwali bai’ , a look at his success journey

Vishal Jethwa reflected on his journey from growing up as the son of a domestic worker to gaining global recognition with his film Homebound, India’s official entry for the Oscars 2026. The actor credited his parents’ struggles for shaping his life as he continues to rise on the international stage.

Gayatri Rani

January 22, 2026 / 11:55 IST

Vishal Jethwa in Homebound

Vishal Jethwa's film Homebound is India's official entry for Oscars 2026
Homebound received a 9-minute standing ovation at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival
Vishal credits his parents' support despite their financial struggles

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Vishal Jethwa made his acting debut in 2013 after he starred as Akbar in the TV serial Bharat Ka Veer Putra – Maharana Pratap. He has come a long way since then and has recently received global recognition after his film Homebound became the official entry for the Academy Awards 2026.

The actor has received immense support from his parents, Naresh and Preeti Jethwa, who struggled hard to let their son’s dream come true.

During an interview with Hindustan Times, Vishal once admitted that he came from a poor background and his mother was a domestic worker.

Following his Cannes debut, Vishal said, “Main ek kamwali bai jo hoti hain, unka beta hun. Meri mumma ne logon ke ghar pe jhaadu pochha kiya hai [I am the son of a woman who worked as a domestic worker. My mother used to sweep and mop people’s homes].”

He added, “She used to sell sanitary pads in a supermarket. My father used to sell coconut water. I have seen all of this. And I could relate all this to it. But not now, now my life has moved beyond that. But privilege is such a big thing — I never knew that."