Ishaan Khatter experienced a remarkable year in his acting career, highlighted by the film “Homebound,” directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, which served as India’s official submission for the Oscars 2026. This film, featuring Ishaan alongside Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor, achieved the significant milestone of making it to the Top 15 shortlist. During the Oscar campaign in the United States, Ishaan developed a close bond with his co-star Vishal Jethwa, a friendship that he cherishes as he returns to the U.S. for the campaign again.
Vishal and the speaker have been pivotal support for each other, highlighting that their friendship is central to their journey. Neeraj emphasized the importance of vulnerability in their relationship, urging them to go beyond a surface-level connection as mere colleagues. He encouraged them to share their insecurities and to maintain honesty and openness with each other, fostering a deeper bond.
In a reflective account, Ishaan reminisces about his initial, intimate meeting with another individual, describing how they bonded over coffee at his home. Their connection deepened as they shared personal stories, leading to ongoing collaboration during film preparations in Barabanki. Ishaan narrates a particular moment when Vishal suffered a foot injury that required surgery and left him with a cast. Despite this setback, the two continued their work, with Ishaan often carrying Vishal when they needed to traverse distances. This physical support was accompanied by playful banter, as Vishal humorously remarked on the nurturing nature of Ishaan’s assistance, likening it to that of a girlfriend. Their relationship has since strengthened, coalescing further during the film’s Oscar campaign in the United States, highlighting a growing camaraderie between the actors.
Ishaan reflects positively on his relationship with Janhvi Kapoor, noting their shared journey since their debut in the film Dhadak. He acknowledges their personal growth over the past seven years, remarking on the transformation they have undergone into adulthood. Ishaan expresses appreciation for Janhvi, highlighting her development into a confident young woman and conveying a warm sentiment about their changed perspectives towards each other, emphasizing the “lovely feeling” of seeing how effectively she is managing her career and personal growth.
