Dharma Productions denies plagiarism claims over Homebound, calls allegations 'baseless'

Dharma Productions has responded to allegations of copyright infringement surrounding Neeraj Ghaywan’s film Homebound, calling the claims “baseless and unfounded.” The response came hours after author and journalist Puja Changoiwala told Hindustan Times that her 2021 novel Homebound had been plagiarised for the film backed by Karan Johar and Adar Poonawalla.

In a statement shared with Hindustan Times via text, a spokesperson for Dharma Productions denied the allegations in clear terms. “The allegations of copyright infringement are baseless and unfounded, and Dharma Productions categorically denies the same,” the statement read. The production house clarified that the film is not adapted from Changoiwala’s novel.

According to Dharma Productions, Homebound is an officially licensed adaptation inspired by a New York Times article written by Basharat Peer. “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 spokesperson added.

The production house also acknowledged receiving a legal notice from Changoiwala in October. “A legal notice has been received and duly responded to by Dharma Productions’ legal counsel,” the statement said. However, Dharma Productions claimed it has not received any formal communication regarding the suit the author has reportedly initiated in the Bombay High Court.

Addressing reports of pre suit mediation, the statement further read, “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.” The production house added that it is exploring legal options to protect the film’s integrity.

Earlier, in an email to Hindustan Times, Puja Changoiwala stated that she had initiated legal action against Dharma Productions Private Limited and Netflix Entertainment Services India LLP. She alleged that the makers had not only used the same title as her novel but also copied substantial portions of the book.

“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,” Changoiwala claimed.

Homebound, starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May. It released in theatres on September 26 and is now streaming on Netflix. The film has also been shortlisted as an Oscar contender, adding further attention to the ongoing dispute.