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News Topical, Digital Desk : Hindi cinema boasts many stars who have carved out a niche for themselves in Bollywood through hard work and perseverance. These outsiders have risen from rags to riches in film. One such 31-year-old actor has proven his acting prowess not only in Bollywood but also on the international stage.

This actor, who spent his childhood in poverty, witnessed his mother sweeping other people's homes and his father selling coconuts. At the age of 31, this actor has witnessed everything that has inspired him to strive for something special. Who is this shining star on the international stage? Read his story in detail below.

This actor's dream shattered after coming close to winning an Oscar

This actor, who rose from poverty to make his mark on the international stage, is none other than Vishal Jethwa, whose film, Homebound, first received a 9-minute standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival and subsequently was shortlisted as India's nominee for the Oscars in 2026. However, after reaching a close mark, the film was left off the nomination list this year.

Vishal's character in Homebound is one who has big dreams but doesn't even have the money to build a roof over his house. Speaking to Bollywood Bubble about the film, Vishal said, “I come from a poor family. The only reason I was so confident at Cannes was because my sister told me not to worry, because you're the son of a maid.”

Vishal's mother used to work from house to house.

Vishal Jethwa further talked about his journey and said, “I am the son of a maid. My mother has cleaned people's homes. She used to sell sanitary pads in supermarkets. My father used to sell coconut water. I have seen it all and can connect with it. My life has now progressed much further than that and it is a privilege to have achieved so much.”

Vishal Jethwa made his debut in 2014 with the film "Darr: The Mall," in which he received no credit. In 2017, he played a tea seller in Irrfan Khan's film. His fortunes turned when he starred in Rani Mukerji's film "Mardaani 2." He was well-received as a serial killer.


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