Ignored on the global stage? Janhvi Kapoor, Vishal Jethwa face backlash for overlooking Ishaan Khatter during Cannes interview

What was supposed to be a proud red carpet moment at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival has turned into a PR nightmare for Bollywood actors Janhvi Kapoor and Vishal Jethwa. A short clip from a media interaction has gone viral, showing the duo whispering among themselves while co-star Ishaan Khatter was mid-interview — a move that has now sparked a wave of criticism for being ‘rude’ and ‘unprofessional’ on an international platform.

Viral clip sparks online outrage

A short video clip from the 77th Cannes Film Festival has stirred up controversy on social media, putting actors Janhvi Kapoor and Vishal Jethwa under fire. The clip shows the trio Janhvi, Vishal, and Ishaan Khatter during a press interaction for their film Homebound, but instead of sharing the moment with dignity, the actors’ behaviour has triggered backlash.

Janhvi and Vishal caught whispering during Interview

In the now-viral video, Ishaan is seen answering a journalist’s question, while Janhvi and Vishal appear to be engaged in a private conversation. Janhvi leans over to whisper something into Vishal’s ear, who then responds casually, seemingly indifferent to the ongoing interview. Their actions, seen by millions online, were quickly branded as “unprofessional” and "disrespectful" by netizens. 

Social Media reacts

The backlash was swift and pointed. One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “When someone is giving an interview, the least you can do is not whisper on the side. It’s just basic courtesy.” Another comment read, “This is hella disrespectful. Ishaan, run.” Many users expressed frustration, saying the actors needed to behave with maturity, especially at a prestigious international platform like Cannes.

Calls for professionalism from the public

Several social media users echoed the sentiment that representing Indian cinema on a global stage requires more professionalism. "This isn’t a casual get-together, it’s Cannes," one post read. Another angry viewer commented, “Want to school them like a teacher. 5 minute bad mein baat kar lena tha."

Homebound's global recognition overshadowed

A number of social media users supported the idea that better professionalism is needed to showcase Indian cinema on an international platform. "This is not a hangout session, it is Cannes," one of the posts had claimed. Another furious viewer wrote, "Want to teach them like a teacher. 5 minute bad mein baat kar lena tha."