Homebound

In a north Indian state, best friends Chandan Kumar (Vishal Jethwa) and Mohammed Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter) see the police uniform as their only escape and a shield against the caste and religion-based bigotry they face frequently. To them, the uniform symbolizes respect, access, and a rightful place at the table. Though painfully aware of the ingrained societal hierarchy, it’s their youthful zest for life, hope for a better tomorrow, and unbreakable bond that keep them going. Their persistence and optimism are tested time and again, but things reach a breaking point when a nationwide lockdown due to Covid-19 separates them from their families and the place they call home.

The bonds between men constitute a sub-genre in Indian cinema. From Anand to Sholay to Dil Chahta Hai to Pyaar Ka Punchnama, these friendships have beguiled generations of viewers. It is fitting that in the 50th anniversary year of Sholay, comes the story of two young men whose story follows familiar beats — deep, abiding affection, a fracture in the friendship, tragedy. And yet, Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound is unlike most of these films that have gone before. Because the two men belong to marginalised communities; one is Muslim and the other Dalit. And because the story leads into the pandemic. By the end, I was a weeping mess.