‘Homebound’ co-author rubbishes charge of plagiarism, stresses Ray influence
Times of India | 27 December 2025
Kolkata: Sumit Roy, the Bengali scriptwriter who co-authored ‘Homebound', has addressed the allegations of plagiarism concerning India's submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars. Roy pointed out the film was deeply influenced by Satyajit Ray and that before the filing of the plagiarism case, he was neither acquainted with the author who levelled the allegations nor was he familiar with her novel.
This response aims at clarifying his position and refuting the claims of intellectual property infringement.
Produced by Dharma Production, Neeraj Ghaywan's ‘Homebound' stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor. Recently, author Puja Changoiwala initiated legal proceedings, accusing the makers of copying her 2021 novel of the same name. Roy had earlier told TOI about Ray's influence on the film. Asked how the allegation charges stood in the backdrop of his comment on Ray's influence, he said, "Everything I said about Ray and how his humanism influenced ‘Homebound' remains as valuable as ever. This moment when ‘Homebound' is getting so much international attention should be about empathy and casting a humanistic gaze on people, like Chandan and Shoaib, and others like them whose courage and search for a dignified existence inspired us to make the film."
About both the film and Changoiwala's novel having the same name, Roy said, "We debated many titles before settling on ‘Homebound'."
Roy claimed to TOI that the allegation of copyright infringement was "unfounded". "I agree with the official statement from Dharma: ‘A legal notice has been received and duly responded to by Dharma's legal counsel. ‘Homebound' is an officially licensed adaptation inspired by the New York Times article by Basharat Peer, with all requisite rights lawfully acquired and due credit duly provided. Dharma has become aware through media reports of an alleged pre-suit mediation before the Bombay HC; however, no formal communication has been received to date. Dharma is adopting a firm legal position and, as the matter is sub judice, will not comment further'."