Dharma Productions has come out with a strong statement denying plagiarism allegations about their film Homebound. The controversy started when author and journalist Puja Changoiwala claimed that the makers copied her 2021 novel of the same name. This news came just days after the film was shortlisted for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards.
Changoiwala sent a legal notice in October claiming that major portions of the film’s second half were taken from her book. She said that scenes, dialogues, the way the story is told, and the sequence of events closely match her novel. According to her, Homebound does not just share a title but also has important creative elements from her work. She is now seeking legal action that includes a possible injunction and damages.
What Dharma Productions Is Saying
Dharma Productions has completely rejected these claims. In an official statement, the production house said that the allegations of copyright violation are baseless and unfounded. They made it very clear that Homebound is an officially licensed adaptation that was inspired by a New York Times article written by Basharat Peer. They stated that all required rights were legally acquired and proper credit was given where needed.
The statement also mentioned that Dharma Productions received the legal notice and their legal team has already responded to it. The production house added that they have learned about an alleged pre suit mediation before the Bombay High Court through media reports, but they have not received any formal communication about it yet.
Dharma Is Considering Legal Action
The statement from Dharma Productions made it clear that they take such allegations very seriously. They said they are now exploring legal action from their end to protect the integrity of their film. This shows that the production house is not going to stay quiet and is ready to fight these claims in court if needed.
The Oscar shortlist announcement should have been a moment of celebration for the team, but instead this legal controversy has taken away some of that joy. The makers are now dealing with both the excitement of awards recognition and the stress of a copyright dispute at the same time.
About The Film
Homebound is directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor. The film is set during the COVID 19 pandemic and focuses on the migrant exodus that happened during that difficult time. While the film continues to get attention for its awards prospects, this copyright dispute has added a new legal angle to the public conversation around it.
About Homebound
Homebound is a Dharma Productions film directed by Neeraj Ghaywan. The film stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor and is set against the backdrop of the COVID 19 migrant crisis. The film has been shortlisted for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards. More official announcements are awaited.
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