Janhvi Kapoor on stepping into a powerful new role and bringing Homebound to Cannes
@vaishnavpraveen
There are some films that urge us to stop and listen, at times, begging more questions than they answer. Homebound , which premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard category, is one such title. Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Martin Scorsese, the film received a nine-minute standing ovation at its premiere, moving the audience with its raw storytelling and unflinching moral gaze. Set against the backdrop of rural North India, the film follows the story of two childhood friends—Shoaib Ali (Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan Kumar (Vishal Jethwa)—as they work towards their goal of becoming police officers that promises them dignity and a better life. Delving into themes of class, caste and religion, the story reflects the challenges faced by marginalised communities in India. And at the heart of this slow burn rebellion is Sudha Bharti—an idealist whose strength lies in her moral clarity—brought to life with great conviction by Indian actress Janhvi Kapoor.
Her character plays the romantic interest of Chandan (Vishal Jethwa), who she motivates to pursue his potential academic calling. Extremely politically aware and passionate about the Ambedkarite belief system, Sudha feels responsible to encourage awareness among others. In many ways, Sudha is the moral compass of the film; a catalyst in Chandan's journey.
For Kapoor, whose journey has often been shaped by the expectations that come with her last name, Homebound stands as a career defining shift. Her decision to take on the role was an intention to pivot towards craft, rather than the glamour of it. Her most introspective role to date, Kapoor prepared for it by reading books like Annihilation of Caste and watching films like Rosetta and Three Colours: Blue , and doing her own research as well. 'It made me a more empathetic person, more sincere, diligent, curious, and socially responsible,' Kapoor on playing Sudha. 'I'm extremely grateful for the journey this role took me on.'
At the film's premiere at Cannes Film Festival, the actress turned heads with her red carpet appearance wearing a Tarun Tahiliani ensemble that paid tribute to her late mother, the legendary Sridevi. In an interview with Vogue Singapore , Janhvi Kapoor opens up about playing a character like Sudha, collaborating with Ghaywan, and her experience at Cannes. @vaishnavpraveen
Congratulations on the Cannes premiere of the film. How are you feeling about being there and showing the film to a global audience for the first time?
It is an absolute honour to be part of such a prestigious film festival, surrounded by so many incredible artists, and to share this film with a global audience for the very first time. At the premiere of Homebound last week, I witnessed a community that truly values cinema. The way the audience received the film; the respect they showed for what we tried to create, their openness to it, and how deeply it moved them, really affirmed our belief in the importance of this story. It has a message that resonates globally. I keep pinching myself and counting my blessings that I was able to be part of a film and a story like this, and that, as a result, I also get to be part of a festival like this.
Sudha Bharti feels like a departure from some of your earlier roles. How did you prepare for the role and what did this character allow you to explore that you hadn't before?
It was very important for both the director and myself to be as aware and informed as possible about the politics of my character and her belief system. That meant a great deal to me, because in many ways, Sudha is the moral soul of the film; she's a catalyst. So, understanding where her political ideology came from was essential. It involved reading a lot of literature and really trying to empathise with her perspective. That process made me a more empathetic person, someone that's more sincere, diligent, curious, and socially responsible. I'm extremely grateful for the journey this role took me on. Courtesy of Festival de Cannes
Homebound touches on themes of friendship, ambition, and the sacrifices one makes for a dream. Tell us more about the film and if any of the themes resonate more with you?
The theme that resonates most with me is identity, specifically, the journey of accepting one's identity in order to challenge invisible systems that uphold social hierarchies. I believe everyone should be as conscious as possible of these systems and feel empowered to confront them. And I truly think that fight begins with embracing who you are.
What was it like working with Neeraj Ghaywan? How did his direction influence your performance?
Working with Neeraj sir has been one of the highlights of my career. It's truly one of the most cherished relationships I've built as an actor. He's such a special human being, the most sensitive, considerate, and wise presence, both on- and off-set. It's been a real privilege to spend time with him and learn under his guidance. He's taught me so much about myself and about the kind of person I want to be. His direction not only shaped my performance but also helped me become a more responsible citizen. Through his exercises in empathy, I've grown into a more open and self-aware artist.
You and Ishaan Khatter first shared the screen in Dhadak , and now reunite in Homebound . How has your dynamic evolved over the years, and what have you learned from working with him across these two very different films?
Because we spent so much time together during Dhadak, we had already built a strong sense of familiarity and trust, which really helped, especially on a set like this, where you're required to be vulnerable around each other. Even though our characters didn't share a lot of screen time in Homebound, Ishaan was around on set quite a bit. One of the most vulnerable scenes in the film, which unfortunately didn't make it into the final cut shown at the festival, required us to be completely comfortable around each other. Courtesy of Festival de Cannes
Were there any particularly memorable days from working on set?
There's a scene in the film where Vishal's character, Chandan, and I are at the beach. It was a very tender and interesting moment, I really enjoyed performing it. There was something about the location, and also the comfort that came from spending a good amount of time with Vishal beforehand. It felt like we had found our rhythm, and shooting that scene was a genuinely fulfilling experience.
Cannes is a big moment. What does it mean for you to take Indian cinema to the world stage?
I'm just grateful to be part of a film as meaningful as this one. It's incredibly moving to see how much it has resonated with people and knowing that Neeraj sir created it from such a sincere and genuine place makes it all the more personal for all of us involved. I knew from the beginning that I wanted to be part of this story, and the biggest honour has been simply being considered for the role and going on this journey with the team. To now witness how this work of art has touched lives and connected with so many people at the screening, it's incredibly fulfilling. I'm just glad the film is being showcased on a platform as global as Cannes, because that's what it truly deserves. It's a deeply universal film.
Martin Scorsese backed the film. Is he someone that inspires you? How did that add a new kind of layer to the film?
Martin Scorsese coming on board as an executive producer is something I still haven't fully processed. I've grown up watching his films, and for any film buff, his work represents the pinnacle of cinema. He's a complete stalwart of the craft, and honestly, it feels surreal that someone like him has seen a film I've been part of. The fact that he's been so involved, not just during the script stage, but also throughout the editing process, really shows what a true champion he is for world cinema. It's incredibly humbling and a huge honour to know that he believed in the story enough to be part of this journey with us.
From Dhadak to Homebound , how would you say you've evolved as an actor?
I think I've definitely become more confident and open as an actor. I'm no longer confused about the value I bring to a film with my skill set. The experiences I've had over the years have made me more malleable and adventurous on set, more willing to explore places that feel emotionally or even physically uncomfortable. I've also started to understand that I don't need to take myself so seriously. A big part of the process is allowing yourself to grow, to explore, and to indulge the child in you, that sense of curiosity and play. I'm happy to be able to tap into that and let it guide me every time I step onto a movie set. I work with more confidence now, with both greater abandon and discipline. After spending a few more years in the industry, I've gained more experience, and with that comes a deeper sense of clarity and assurance in my craft.
On a lighter note, your fashion choices have always been stunning. For your Cannes debut, what was the vision behind your red carpet look?
The vision honestly came from my sister, Rhea Kapoor. When we spoke briefly about the film and the fact that we were representing this story on a global stage, we decided very early on that we didn't want it to be a hyper-glamorous moment in terms of the sartorial choices. We wanted it to feel dignified and to be a true reflection of my Indian culture and heritage, never in a way that felt gimmicky or forced, but something that was organic to me. We also knew we wanted the look to be dreamy and ethereal, yet subtle, never loud or demanding attention. And I think that's exactly what we achieved.
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Vogue Singapore
2 days ago
- Vogue Singapore
Meet Bhavya Ramesh—the designer making Indian jewellery cool again
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Ideas often strike unexpectedly: from a passing conversation, a joke, a strong emotion, or just a random observation. That initial spark is where it begins. But once the idea is planted, I begin building a world around it. A big part of my process is the human body itself. The anatomy becomes a framework—the Nail Crown collection, for example, revolved entirely around nails; GlarerKillers explored the eyes; and Poison centred on the movement of fingers. Working hands-on with artisans is where the real magic happens. No matter how imaginative the concept is, its transformation into a tangible piece depends on how well it can be executed. That phase of experimentation—when two minds are in sync trying to bring a wild idea to life—is often where the most iconic pieces are born. Courtesy of Bhavya Ramesh From Ancient Aliens to GilGa, and now Naraka, your collections often feel mythical and cinematic. What's your process when translating storytelling into your designs? The story always comes first. I'm constantly drawn to worlds that are a little surreal, a little beyond reality—whether it's mythology, cosmic fantasy, or reimagined history. I think of these stories almost like scenes from a film: what would these characters look like? What would they wear? Ancient Aliens, for example, started with the thought: what if the gods we see in mythology were actually otherworldly beings? That led me to create pieces like headgears—bold, other-dimensional designs that aren't worn in everyday life but feel absolutely right in a mythical context. Jewellery in India is often bound by tradition. I wanted to break that, to make pieces that feel Indian in soul, but not in form. When someone wears one of these pieces, I want them to feel like they're stepping into a different version of themselves. That ability to liberate and transform through design is what I constantly chase. Courtesy of Bhavya Ramesh Tell us about a memorable celebrity encounter. 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In the end, it's the drive that matters most—not the diploma. Courtesy of Bhavya Ramesh Most of Bhavya Ramesh items are sterling silver. How can we avoid our pieces from tarnishing, especially in more harsh, humid climates like Singapore? All my jewellery is made from solid sterling silver and that's a very intentional choice. Silver is a precious metal, an investment, and something I've committed to staying true to despite the challenges it brings, especially while scaling a business. Silver naturally tarnishes over time, particularly in humid climates like Singapore. But for me, that aging process is part of its charm; much like leather, it gains character. That said, for those who prefer a polished look, we include a silver cleaning cloth with every piece. A gentle wipe brings the shine right back. For care, I recommend storing the pieces in airtight pouches, keeping them away from moisture, and using anti-tarnish strips if needed. What's next for Bhavya Ramesh? Is there a new direction you're excited to explore? Opening our first retail store was a defining moment for me. It marked the transition from being an online-only brand to creating a physical experience. This year, we're planning to open at least three new stores, and each one will be entirely different. Every location will tell a different story, drawing from regional craftsmanship, cultural narratives, and unique interior techniques. We're committed to keeping the ethos of the brand intact-rooted, expressive, and experimental. I'm especially excited about the idea of bringing Bhavya Ramesh to Singapore someday. We have a beautiful clientele there, and I'd love to create a space that feels like an extension of the brand's world. This year is all about storytelling through space, silver, and soul. Shop Bhavya Ramesh here.
Vogue Singapore
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Vogue Singapore
3 days ago
- Vogue Singapore
ILLIT navigates the ups and downs of a blossoming relationship in new EP, ‘Bomb'
Debuting in early 2024, ILLIT, the quintet from South Korea, rose to immediate success with their debut single 'Magnetic.' Sporting a catchy tune and bubbly vocals, the track became an instant viral hit, showcasing the group's unique sound and solidifying their position in a highly competitive industry. 'Our music continues to convey our spirited feelings in a playful but sincere way,' says main vocalist Minju, as she reflects on how far the group has come. A little over a year since their debut, the girl group has just released their third mini album, Bomb, continuing to build upon a narrative of self-discovery. Venturing into the realm of a blossoming relationship, they tap into new feelings and experiences, all while staying true to their core selves. With playful lyrics, snappy melodies and ILLIT's signature youthful energy, the diverse tracks of their new EP explore the ups and downs of young love. Here, the five members—Yunah, Minju, Moka, Wonhee, and Iroha—share with Vogue Singapore the concept and inspiration behind new mini album Bomb, their love for performing live and how they have grown over the past year since their debut. Courtesy of Belift Lab Tell us about what inspired your new EP Bomb. What is the concept behind this project? Yunah: Our third mini album draws inspiration from the idea of 'magical girls.' It tells the story of girls stepping out into the world and navigating newfound relationships while holding on to their inner magic, always believing in their own possibilities. Wonhee: This album shows us facing our feelings head-on. We also tap into new emotions such as the anxiety and uncertainty surrounding a blossoming relationship. Tell us a bit more about your lead single 'Billyeoon Goyangi (Do the Dance)'. What inspired this track? Yunah: The title comes from a proverb depicting the feeling of being lost or out of place—like a borrowed cat who doesn't quite belong. It perfectly captures the dazed, awkward state after making a mistake in front of someone you like. Personally, my favourite parts are the intro and the interlude, with a grand, parade-like vibe reminiscent of an amusement park. Moka: The performance of the track has a really sweet vibe. Notably, it features a set of intricate hand movements—dubbed the 'cat's stretch dance' and 'meow dance'—that have sort of become our signature moves. Could you share some interesting behind-the-scenes moments of recording this project? Wonhee: I have a verse that includes some French lyrics, which I took the time to learn while recording. They were a bit tricky to pronounce at first, but I managed to pull them off after some practice and I think it adds a special surprise to the song. Minju: Although it's not my part, I really loved the playful lyrics like 'wiggle meow, dance dance meow.' Those lines add a cute, lighthearted energy to the song. They have been stuck in my head ever since the recording, making the track super addictive. I think it will have a similar effect on those who listen to it. Which song(s) are you most excited for fans to hear and why? Iroha: I'm most excited for fans to listen to 'little monster.' I hope they watch the music video alongside the track and pay close attention to the lyrics. Moka: The lyrics of 'little monster' are super unique, and the song itself is very chic. It talks about facing and overcoming inner monsters—symbolising stressors like anxiety, depression, and sadness—and I believe many listeners will be able to relate to it. As you are set to release your third EP, how have you evolved—as a group and as individuals—compared to when you first debuted? Yunah: I believe our improvisations and performances on stage have become much more natural and confident compared to when we first debuted. In the beginning, we were more focused on getting everything exactly right, but now we've grown more comfortable in expressing ourselves and better connecting with the audience. Iroha: As a group, our synergy has improved and our teamwork has gotten stronger. We also have more conversations now on how to translate this synergy into our music and performances. Personally, I think I've gotten better at delivering emotions through my vocals and movements compared to when we first debuted. Courtesy of Belift Lab What does performing in front of your fans mean to you? Do you have plans to travel overseas to perform—where would that be? Wonhee: We recently held our first fan concert in Seoul, and it was one of the most surreal moments since our debut—hearing the crowd sing along to our songs brought us so much joy. I hope to meet GLLITs in many more cities and countries around the world. Minju: We feel very proud and happy to be able to bring joy to our fans. We have another concert planned in Japan later this year, and I'm thrilled to meet our fans in person and bring our performances to them up close. What other sounds or concepts are you looking to explore in the future? Moka: I'd love to explore the genre of hip-hop in the future. I believe experimenting with various genres helps broaden our musical range and skills, and it would be exciting to show a different, bolder side of us. Yunah: I want to challenge myself with band-style songs and concepts. I love the raw, energetic sound that instrumentation brings to band music. I think exploring in that direction would bring a fresh and dynamic vibe to our music. Listen to Bomb here .
