A video clip from the Cannes Film Festival 2025 featuring actors Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, and Vishal Jethwa has gone viral, sparking online chatter. The trio was at Cannes for the screening of their film, Homebound, which received a nine-minute standing ovation. However, a particular interaction during a press interview has drawn criticism, with many viewers perceiving it as disrespectful behavior from Janhvi and Vishal towards Ishaan.

In the controversial video, Ishaan Khatter is seen actively engaging with a journalist, answering a question. Janhvi Kapoor and Vishal Jethwa, seated beside him, appear engrossed in their own private conversation. Janhvi is seen whispering into Vishal's ear, to which he responds, seemingly oblivious to Ishaan's ongoing interview, despite being part of the same media interaction.

The video quickly circulated on social media platforms, drawing negative comments. Many users expressed frustration, pointing out the lack of courtesy in whispering while someone is giving an interview, deeming it disrespectful. Some comments went as far as calling the behavior "rude," "unprofessional," and even "childish."

Adding fuel to the fire, another video clip from the Homebound red carpet at Cannes 2025 shows Ishaan offering his hand to help Janhvi, only to be seemingly ignored. This moment further intensified speculation about a possible fallout between the two, who were once rumored to be dating after starring together in the 2018 film, Dhadak.

Amidst the online criticism, Vishal Jethwa has come forward to clarify the situation and dispel rumors of any tension between Janhvi and Ishaan. In an exclusive interview with Zoom, Vishal stated that there was no awkwardness between the two actors. He described their rapport as comfortable and supportive.

Vishal explained that he has seen Janhvi and Ishaan working together and that they are very comfortable with each other, are well-wishers and talk very nicely to one another.

Addressing the specific moment captured in the viral video where Janhvi seemed to ignore Ishaan's offer of help on the red carpet, Vishal clarified that Janhvi was holding her gown. He further added that he was holding the trail of Janhvi's gown at Cannes. He was also afraid of attending Cannes and that he had insecurities of communicating with people because he cannot speak English fluently. He shared his insecurities with Janhvi and Ishaan, and that all three of them are protective of each other.

Despite the online controversy, Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, received significant acclaim at its world premiere during the 77th Cannes Film Festival. The film was lauded for its powerful storytelling and emotional depth, receiving a remarkable nine-minute standing ovation. The film's premiere was attended by producer Karan Johar, as well as Janhvi Kapoor's father Boney Kapoor and sister Khushi Kapoor, alongside other members of the film's creative team. Homebound narrates the story of two childhood friends from a small North Indian village who chase a police job, promising them dignity but their mounting desperation threatens their bond.