Ishaan Khatter, the rising Bollywood star, has recently emphasized the importance of leveraging one's privilege to spread awareness about social issues. This statement comes amidst his growing recognition on the international stage, particularly after starring in "Homebound," which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2025 and is now India's official entry for the 2026 Oscars.

Khatter's film "Homebound" delves into complex social and cultural issues prevalent in Northern India. The narrative explores friendship and resilience in the face of systemic challenges, highlighting the struggles of young individuals navigating a divisive world. Themes of social hierarchy, identity, and ambition are central to the film, inviting viewers to reflect on the systemic injustices that perpetuate inequality.

During an interview at Cannes 2025, Khatter, along with co-stars Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor, discussed the film's engagement with these broader social themes. They emphasized the film's potential to encourage empathy and a sense of societal responsibility. Khatter sees the film as a way to humanize individuals, rather than reduce them to mere statistics, fostering understanding and compassion among global audiences.

Khatter's commitment to social awareness extends beyond his role in "Homebound." He believes the fight for equality should be personal for everyone, highlighting the need to eradicate judgment based on factors like caste, creed, religion, socioeconomic status, skin color, and whom one chooses to love. He sees these as universal problems, emphasizing the importance of empathy in overcoming societal divisions.

He acknowledges his own privilege and recognizes the responsibility that comes with it. While some have questioned his involvement in projects dealing with social issues, given his privileged background, Khatter maintains that the fight for equality should be a universal concern. He feels invested in putting out a message that encourages introspection and reflection on societal attitudes.

Khatter's perspective is also shaped by his upbringing and the values instilled in him by his mother, Neelima Azeem, a celebrated dancer. He recognizes the sacrifices women often make and expresses a desire to be compassionate and protective towards the women he works with.

Moreover, Khatter's recent partnership with BOSS as a global ambassador for their Fall/Winter 2025 campaign aligns with his ethos of daring self-expression and personal ambition. The "Be the Next" campaign celebrates individuals who push boundaries and shape their own paths to success, resonating with Khatter's journey as an artist and individual. He sees this collaboration as an opportunity to cement himself as a global cultural figure who navigates cinema, style, and identity with equal ease.

In essence, Ishaan Khatter's message is a call to action, urging individuals to recognize their privilege and utilize it to amplify marginalized voices and promote understanding. He believes that through cinema and personal expression, one can contribute to a more empathetic and equitable society.