KJo: Adar Poonawalla is Dharma's 'missionary' partner

Filmmaker Karan Johar has clarified his position as the principal creative force at Dharma Productions, even after Adar Poonawalla's recent acquisition of a 50 percent stake. Johar lauded Poonawalla as a "gracious partner" and a "missionary" who supports bold ventures without interference in creative decisions. Poonawalla's encouragement to "put passion over money" was crucial for the Oscar campaign of the film Homebound.

Johar admitted his initial apprehension regarding the substantial costs associated with an Oscar campaign, likening it to a "bottomless pit." Despite the financial uncertainties, Poonawalla urged for a full commitment, emphasizing the film's significance over potential profit and loss. This approach underscores Homebound's status as a passion project, distinct from other films intended for survival.

Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Homebound tackles caste and religion-based discrimination within an Indian landscape, following two friends striving to establish their identities. The film, which previously received a standing ovation at the Cannes International Film Festival, features Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor. Nominations for the 98th Academy Awards are set to be announced on January 22.