Dharma Productions has strongly denied allegations of plagiarism against its film homebound Author and journalist Pooja Changoiwala accused the makers of copying her 2021 novel of the same name. The controversy began just days after the film was selected for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards.
Dharma Productions calls Homebound plagiarism claims “baseless and unfounded”
Changoiwala sent a legal notice in October claiming that significant parts of the second half of the film – including scenes, dialogue, narrative structure and sequence of events – closely mirror his book. He also argued homebound Shares not just a title but substantial creative elements, and is seeking legal remedies including possible injunctions and damages.
A statement from Dharma Productions shared by Mid-Day said, “The allegations of copyright infringement are baseless and baseless, and Dharma Productions categorically denies the same. homebound This is an officially licensed adaptation inspired by Basharat Peer’s New York Times article, with all necessary rights legally obtained and appropriate credit provided. A legal notice has been received and the legal counsel of Dharma Productions has duly responded to it.
It further reads, “Dharma Productions has become aware through media reports of an alleged pre-suit arbitration before the Bombay High Court – however, no formal communication has been received till date. We take such allegations seriously and are exploring the possibility of legal action at our level to protect the integrity of our film.”
The film, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor, is set against the backdrop of the COVID-19 migrant exodus. Whereas homebound While it continues to attract attention for its awards prospects, the copyright dispute adds a new legal dimension to its public conversation.
