Know Vishal Jethwa: 30, 'Homebound' Actor's Journey From Gujarat To Standing Ovation At Cannes

The Hindi film industry witnessed a proud moment recently after Dharma Production's Homebound was selected to screen at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. Screened under the Un Certain Regard section, it has received a 9-minute standing ovation, which is another feat for the film's team. During this significant outing, all eyes were set on the lead actors of the film, Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa.

Fans already know a lot about Janhvi and Ishaan, but it's Vishal Jethwa who, despite impressing audiences with his performances, continues to stay low-key. The 30-year-old actor's performance has played a crucial role in shaping the film's emotionally stirring narrative. But do you know how this anonymous boy hailing from Gujarat made it to the top? Here's everything you need to know about his journey from Gujarat to a standing ovation at Cannes.

Vishal Jethwa began his career with his brief yet impactful roles in Hindi TV shows 

Vishal Jethwa, born on July 6, 1994, hails from Gujarat. He is the son of Naresh and Preeti Jethwa and never shies away from acknowledging his love for his mom. Vishal completed his studies at Thakur College of Science and Commerce. However, his exact field of graduation is not known. The young actor stepped into acting by portraying the role of 'Akbar' on Bharat Ka Veer Putra – Maharana Pratap. The show aired on Sony TV and also featured Faisal Khan, Jannat Zubair, Roshni Walia and more. 

He gained attention with his performance and played brief roles in Sankatmochan Mahabali Hanuman, Diya Aur Baati Hum, Peshwa Bajirao, and Thapki Pyar Ki among others. Only a few people know that Vishal has also been a background dancer on the reality show, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. Despite his less screen presence, the versatility and impact of Vishal Jethwa didn't go unnoticed by the fans or the industry insiders and culminated in his transition into films.

Vishal Jethwa's breakthrough performance in Mardaani 2 made his way into big films in Bollywood  

Vishal Jethwa's stellar performance in Rani Mukerji starrer Mardaani 2 came as a surprise for the fans. Before the film's release in 2019, the makers adopted a specific promotional strategy and kept his role in the film as a surprise. During the filming of Mardaani 2, Vishal stepped away from the spotlight and became inactive on his social media platforms. But, after the film's release, his role as a brutal serial killer and antagonist in the film made him a household name. 

Following the big breakthrough in Bollywood, he continued the stride of applaud-worthy performances in Salaam Venky alongside Kajol and IB71 with Vidyut Jammwal. Apart from these roles, the 30-year-old also ventured into OTT. Vishal was a part of the medical thriller series, Human, co-starring Shefali Shah and Kirti Kulhari. Later, he was also a part of a murder mystery, Party Till I Die, alongside Avneet Kaur. The actor was also seen playing the role of 'Hassan Ali' in Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif's 2023 film, Tiger 3.

Vishal Jethwa and others received a standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival for their work in Homebound 

Vishal Jethwa is presently again making the headlines for his performace in Neeraj Ghaywan's Homebound. The film is based on the story of two friends from a village in North India who take up jobs in the police department to earn back their lost dignity. However, their friendship gets strained amid their pursuit of dreams. The actor joined his film's team, including producer, Karan Johar, Adar Poonawala's wife, Natasha, director, Neeraj Ghaywan, Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor and more at Cannes. He has travelled along with his mother and wore a black pantsuit with a brooch for his red carpet walk. Ahead of his film's screening, the actor took to his social media handle and expressed his feelings and gratitude over the moment and penned:

"Today, I am going to attend the biggest event of my life, and that is the Cannes Film Festival. I wanted to celebrate this journey by sharing this moment with you all because this would never have been possible without your support. Little late to post, but the feeling is real. Dil se thank you aap sab ko.”

Well, from Gujarat to standing ovation at Cannes film festival, Vishal Jethwa's journey proves that following your passion with hardwork and consistency will always make you shine. 

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