Dharma Productions responds to plagiarism allegations over Homebound; says film is a licensed adaptation, ‘Baseless and unfounded’ |
Dharma Productions has responded to allegations of plagiarism levelled by author and journalist Puja Changoiwala over Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound, firmly rejecting the claims and asserting that the film is based on legally acquired source material. The clarification came hours after Puja alleged that her 2021 novel Homebound had been copied for the film of the same name.Calling the allegations “baseless and unfounded,” the Karan Johar and Adar Poonawalla-backed production house issued a statement to Hindustan Times, categorically denying any copyright infringement.
‘All requisite rights lawfully acquired’
In its statement, Dharma Productions clarified the film’s origins, stating, “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.” The production house maintained that the creative foundation of the film is transparent and legally secured.
Legal notice acknowledged, no court communication yet
Dharma confirmed that it had received a legal notice from Puja Changoiwala in October and that the matter had already been addressed by its legal team. “A legal notice has been received and duly responded to by Dharma Productions’ legal counsel,” the statement said.However, the company said it has not received any formal communication from the Bombay High Court regarding the legal proceedings reportedly initiated by the author. “Dharma Productions has become aware through media reports of an alleged pre-suit mediation before the Hon’ble Bombay High Court — however, no formal communication has been received to date,” it added.The production house also indicated that it may take legal steps of its own. “We take such allegations seriously and are exploring legal action at our end to protect the integrity of our film, Homebound,” the statement concluded.
Author alleges misuse of title and content
In a detailed email to Hindustan Times, Puja Changoiwala claimed that she has initiated legal action against Dharma Productions Private Limited and Netflix Entertainment Services India LLP. She alleged that the makers had not only used the title of her novel but had also reproduced significant portions of its content.“The producers have not only misappropriated the title of my book, but have also blatantly reproduced substantial portions of my novel in the second half of the film — including its scenes, dialogue, narrative structure, sequence of events, and other creative expressions,” she alleged. Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Homebound stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May and was released in theatres on September 26. It has since been shortlisted as an Oscar contender and is currently streaming on Netflix.
